Donald Trump faces overwhelming disapproval from Latino voters across the United States, according to a comprehensive new study from the Pew Research Center. The findings reveal significant erosion in support for the former president among one of America's fastest-growing demographic groups.
Sharp Decline in Latino Support
The research demonstrates a dramatic reversal in Latino sentiment toward Trump since the 2024 election. 70% of Latino voters now disapprove of Trump's performance as president, representing a substantial shift from the 48% who voted for him in the 2024 election.
This marks a notable increase from his 2016 performance, where Trump secured only 28% of the Latino vote. The demographic now accounts for one in five Americans, making their political preferences increasingly significant in national elections.
Policy Discontent Drives Disapproval
Latino voters expressed particular concern about Trump's approach to key policy areas. The Pew study found that 65% disapprove of his administration's immigration policies, while 61% believe his economic measures have worsened conditions for their community.
These findings represent a significant change from post-election attitudes, where many Latino voters, particularly men, had credited Trump's economic proposals and immigration stance for winning their support. Many initially believed he wasn't serious about threats of mass deportations.
Growing Fears and Community Impact
The research reveals increasing anxiety within Latino communities about immigration enforcement. 52% of Latinos now worry that they, a family member, or close friend could face deportation under Trump's heightened immigration measures, up from 42% in March.
Nearly 60% reported witnessing or hearing about immigration raids or arrests in their communities within the past six months. This tangible impact has contributed to the declining support, with even a co-founder of Latinas for Trump criticising widespread immigration arrests as "unacceptable and inhumane" in June.
Political Divisions and Electoral Consequences
The political landscape remains sharply divided along party lines. While nearly all Latinos who voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 disapprove of Trump, 81% of those who originally supported Trump still approve of his presidency, though this represents a decline from 93% at the start of his term.
The shifting attitudes appear to have electoral consequences, with Democrats reclaiming Latino support in recent gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia. For the first time in nearly two decades, Pew reported that "most Hispanics say their situation has worsened," with 78% believing Trump's policies have harmed their community.
The study underscores the volatile nature of political allegiance among Latino voters and suggests significant challenges for any future political campaigns seeking to win their support.
