A new Pew Research Center survey finds that while a majority of Americans support the deportation of at least some immigrants living in the U.S. illegally, they are sharply divided over how and where enforcement should take place.
According to the nationally representative survey of 5,123 U.S. adults conducted February 24 to March 2, 2025, 32% believe all undocumented immigrants should be deported, while 51% support deportation for some, especially those with violent criminal convictions. Just 16% say none should be deported.
Strong Support for Deporting Violent Offenders
Among those who favor some deportations, nearly all (97%) support the removal of immigrants with violent crime convictions. However, support wanes for other groups: just 52% back deporting those with nonviolent convictions, and 44% support removal of those who arrived in the past four years. Deportation support falls even further for undocumented immigrants with family or work ties in the U.S.
Enforcement Settings Divide the Public
A key area of contention is where arrests should be allowed. Majorities oppose immigration enforcement at schools (63%), hospitals (61%), and places of worship (65%). In contrast, most support arrests at protests (66%), homes (63%), and workplaces (54%).
These opinions reflect broader tensions around the Trump administration’s renewed use of executive authority, including a controversial invocation of the Alien Enemies Act in March to expedite deportations of alleged gang members.
Partisan, Racial, and Generational Gaps
Partisanship plays a major role. More than half (54%) of Republicans say all undocumented immigrants should be deported, compared to just 10% of Democrats. Similarly, 81% of Republicans back police checks for immigration status during routine encounters, while only 33% of Democrats agree.
Racial and generational gaps also emerge. White and Asian adults are more likely than Black or Hispanic adults to support deportations overall. Younger Americans (under 50) are generally less supportive of aggressive enforcement tactics than older adults.
Personal Impact and Public Worry
Deportation fears remain high among immigrants and communities of color. About one-third of immigrants and 42% of Hispanic adults say they worry that they or someone close to them could be deported. Some have adjusted daily habits out of fear: 4% report carrying documents proving citizenship or legal status, and 2% have avoided public services.
Economic Concerns Emerge
The survey also reveals worries about economic ripple effects. Four-in-ten Americans (42%) believe deportations will raise food prices, given the large share of undocumented immigrants working in agriculture and service sectors. Smaller shares anticipate increases in housing, healthcare, or consumer goods costs.
Bottom Line
The data paints a nuanced picture of how Americans think about immigration enforcement: while there is strong support for removing violent offenders, there is widespread discomfort with enforcement tactics perceived as invasive or targeting vulnerable locations.
As the Trump administration expands its immigration crackdown, the public’s conflicting views signal potential political and legal friction ahead.
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