A recent survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that most U.S. adults now believe the United States is no longer a welcoming destination for immigrants. The poll of over 2,500 adults found that approximately 6 in 10 respondents think the country used to be a great place for immigrants but no longer is. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among Democrats and independents, as well as foreign-born individuals.
Personal Connections to Immigration Enforcement
About one-third of U.S. adults, and more than half of Hispanic adults, report that over the past year, they or someone they know have taken precautions due to immigration status. These include carrying proof of citizenship, changing travel plans, or avoiding work, school, or leaving home. The poll highlights a widespread impact of the Trump administration's aggressive enforcement policies, which have included mass deportations and increased detentions.
Missouri retiree Reid Gibson, an independent, expressed outrage over the treatment of immigrants. His stepdaughter, concerned about her darker skin, now carries her passport everywhere. "It's just plain wrong," Gibson said. "This is not a good country for immigrants anymore."
Demographic Differences
Democrats are more likely than independents or Republicans to know someone affected by enforcement. Among Hispanic adults, 6 in 10 have personal experience with such impacts, compared to lower rates among Black and white adults. Kathy Bailey, a 79-year-old Illinois Democrat, noted that two naturalized citizens in her swim class now carry passports due to fear of being targeted.
Views on Birthright Citizenship
The poll also examined opinions on birthright citizenship, which the Supreme Court is currently considering. About two-thirds of U.S. adults support automatic citizenship for all children born in the country, including most Democrats and independents. However, only 44% of Republicans agree. Some respondents hold nuanced views, supporting birthright citizenship in some circumstances but not others.
Linda Steele, a 70-year-old Republican from Florida, believes only children of U.S. citizens should qualify. "That shouldn't be allowed," she said of parents visiting or studying in the U.S. having citizen children. Meanwhile, Kevin Craig, a conservative-leaning 57-year-old from North Carolina, favors human judgment over automatic grants, though he admitted he could not think of a situation where citizenship would be denied.
The poll underscores deep divisions in American society over immigration policy, as the Trump administration continues its enforcement efforts.
