Latinos in the U.S. are feeling more pessimistic about their situation nearly a year into Donald Trump’s second term. Many believe their circumstances have gotten worse since the 2024 election. Key issues, like immigration and the economy, are at the forefront of their concerns about the Trump administration’s performance.
Recent surveys reveal that 70% of Latinos disapprove of Trump’s job as president. A majority—65%—are unhappy with his immigration policies, and 61% feel his economic strategies have harmed their financial situation. Interestingly, feelings are split based on voting choices in the last election. Most Latinos who backed Trump still support him, albeit at a declining rate, while those who voted for Kamala Harris overwhelmingly disapprove of his leadership. In fact, 81% of Latino Trump voters approve of his performance, down from 93% at the beginning of his term.
Data shows sharp contrasts in perspectives: 89% of Harris voters say conditions for Latinos have worsened since last year, compared to just 31% of Trump voters. Meanwhile, 97% of Harris voters claim Trump’s policies are harmful, while only 34% of Trump voters feel the same.
Recent changes to economic and immigration policies under Trump have also been significant. His administration has focused on enforcing higher tariffs and aggressive deportation tactics, generating tension within Latino communities. A staggering 52% of Latino adults now express anxiety over deportation threats, reflecting the heightened focus on immigration enforcement since Trump took office.
The concern stretches beyond political opinions; many Latinos are facing real financial challenges. While median household income rose and poverty rates fell between 2023 and 2024, about 63% of Latinos still rate their financial situation as fair or poor. Issues like food and healthcare affordability are prevalent, with about one-third struggling to pay for essentials. This financial stress is compounded by negative feelings about the economy, with 78% indicating that the economic situation is poor.
Interestingly, despite these challenges, optimism persists. Half of Latinos expect their financial situation to improve over the next year. Economic hardship can spark resilience, and some individuals have reported positive experiences, such as saving for the future or receiving pay raises.
In summary, while Trump’s presidency has been marked by significant changes affecting Latinos, the community’s reactions to his policies are diverse and complex. As demographics shift and the political landscape evolves, the future will reveal how these views continue to shape their experiences in America.
For more detailed insights, check the Pew Research Center’s findings on how Latinos perceive immigration and economic impacts [here](https://www.pewresearch.org). Additionally, statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau illustrate demographic trends that are essential to understanding the Latino experience today.
