Majority of Americans think Trump will control illegal immigration, not unify country, poll finds
A new survey reveals that Americans have mixed expectations of what President-elect Donald Trump will accomplish in his second term, foreseeing success on seven policy goals while doubting he’ll achieve eight others.
According to the poll, conducted last month by Gallup, a majority of Americans (68%) predict that Trump will control illegal immigration. Smaller majorities also believe he will reduce unemployment, keep the country safe from terrorism, improve the economy, keep the country out of war, cut people’s taxes or reduce the crime rate.
Conversely, the majority of Americans polled (33%) said they do not think Trump will heal political divisions in the country, improve the quality of the environment, improve the healthcare system, improve race relations, improve education, substantially reduce the federal budget deficit, improve conditions for minorities and the poor, or reduce the prices of groceries and other items.
The data showed that survey respondents are less clear in their outlook for Trump’s presidency on two issues – improving the way the federal government works and increasing respect for the U.S. abroad. About half believe he would or wouldn’t accomplish either policy goal.
Republicans more optimistic Trump will achieve goals
The poll found that the majority of Republicans, ranging from 66% to 99%, said they are optimistic he will achieve each of the 17 goals measured.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump looks on during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on December 22, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Credit: Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the data found that the majority of Democrats are skeptical of Trump’s prospects on each. But a third or more are positive he will achieve a few of his top-ranking issues, particularly on controlling illegal immigration.
Americans’ expectations for Trump in 2016 vs 2024
The new findings revealed that far more Americans now than in 2016 believe Trump will keep the nation out of war – rising 17 percentage points to 55%.
RELATED: Trump says GOP will push to end daylight saving time
In addition, the belief that he will control illegal immigration has increased 9% since 2016, 8% for reducing the crime rate, and 6% for improving race relations.
In contrast, the findings showed that Americans may be less sure today than in 2016 that Trump will improve national conditions in the areas of healthcare and education, with percentages slipping 12 and 10 points, respectively.