Nearly half of Americans approve of President Donald Trump’s handling of immigration, while the same proportion disapprove of his approach to the economy and affordability, a new Emerson College poll shows.
Immigration Ratings
The survey of 1,000 Americans found 47% gave the president either an “A” or “B” grade for his handling of immigration, while 45% gave him either a “D” or “F” grade. These figures indicate a narrow margin between approval and disapproval on the immigration issue.
Economy and Affordability
When asked about the economy, 41% of respondents awarded Trump a passing grade of A or B, whereas 47% gave him a failing grade of D or F. Affordability fared worse: only 36% of voters gave Trump a passing grade, while 51% assigned him a D or F. The data suggest that economic concerns are a stronger source of discontent than immigration for many Americans.
Military Strikes in the Caribbean
The poll also touched on foreign policy. Forty-five percent of Americans believe the military’s strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean are justified, while 42% say they were not justified. The question highlights a near-even split in public opinion on this controversial operation.
Favorability of Political Figures
Voters were asked about several political personalities. Vice President JD Vance received the highest favorability at 46%, with an unfavorable rating of 41%. Businessman Elon Musk was favorable to 40% of respondents and unfavorable to 46%. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) had a 35% favorability rating, with 38% holding an unfavorable view.
Among Democrats who might run for president in 2028, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and California Gov. Gavin Newsom each received a 33% favorability rating. Newsom’s unfavorable rating stood at 44%, while Shapiro’s was 27%. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) had a 32% favorable rating and a 44% unfavorable rating.
Marijuana Legalization and Data Centers
The survey also explored social issues. A majority of Americans-65%-supported legalizing marijuana, an increase of five points from an October 2024 Emerson College Polling survey. Regarding data centers, 34% of voters would either strongly or somewhat support a data center in their community, compared to 42% who are somewhat or strongly opposed. In the Midwest, nearly a majority-49%-were opposed to a data center in their communities.
Key Takeaways
- Immigration approval and disapproval are almost evenly split, with 47% approving and 45% disapproving.
- Economic concerns drive a larger share of disapproval, with 47% giving Trump a failing grade on the economy and 51% on affordability.
- Public opinion on the military’s Caribbean strikes is almost evenly divided, 45% in favor and 42% against.
The Emerson College poll paints a picture of a nation deeply divided on key issues, from immigration and economic policy to foreign military actions and social reforms. These findings may influence upcoming political strategies as the next election cycle approaches.
