Sharp Drop in Hispanic Support Raises Questions for 2026 Midterms
A new CBS News/YouGov poll shows a noticeable drop in support for President Donald Trump among Hispanic Americans — a group that had become a key part of his growing voter coalition. According to the survey conducted July 16–18, Trump’s approval rating among Hispanic voters has fallen from 50% at the beginning of his second term to just 33% today.
This decline is being driven largely by concerns over immigration enforcement and the economy — two issues that are top priorities for voters across the board, especially among conservatives and working-class Americans.
Immigration Crackdown Sparks Division
Under President Trump’s leadership, immigration enforcement has ramped up dramatically. His administration has focused on deporting illegal immigrants, restoring border security, and prioritizing American jobs. These policies have been praised by many in the conservative movement for putting national security and the rule of law first.
But according to the CBS poll, 63% of Hispanic respondents now believe Trump’s approach to immigration is “too tough,” with 56% saying non-criminals are being unfairly targeted. Additionally, 64% of all respondents believe Hispanic Americans are being disproportionately subjected to immigration enforcement — and 78% of those consider that treatment unfair.
Despite these concerns, many conservatives continue to argue that strong borders are essential for American sovereignty, public safety, and economic opportunity.
Economic Concerns Add to Political Pressure
While immigration has dominated headlines, inflation and the cost of living are emerging as major issues as well. The poll shows that only 36% of Hispanic voters approve of Trump’s handling of inflation, while a staggering 70% of all Americans say not enough is being done to lower prices.
Rising food, housing, and energy costs are affecting everyday families — especially older Americans and retirees — and that dissatisfaction is beginning to reflect in broader approval ratings.
Trump’s overall job approval currently stands at 42%, with 58% disapproving. Yet despite these numbers, many conservatives believe the economic instability is largely the result of the damage done during the Biden years and global market fluctuations — not Trump’s policy choices.
Past Gains and Future Stakes
In the 2024 election, Trump shocked the political establishment by winning 48% of the Hispanic vote — surpassing even President George W. Bush’s historic performance in 2004. His message of economic revival, job creation, and border control struck a chord with millions of Hispanic families looking for opportunity and security.
But with the 2026 midterms on the horizon, both parties see the Hispanic vote as crucial. Republicans will be working hard to solidify their gains, while Democrats are looking to exploit perceived weaknesses in Trump’s current policy approach.
Expert Opinions Highlight Political Crossroads
Eduardo Gamarra, a political science professor at Florida International University, noted that Hispanic Americans are starting to mirror the broader electorate. “The economy is now the primary concern,” he said. “Second- and third-generation Hispanics are blending more into the mainstream and are less influenced by immigration narratives.”
Meanwhile, political strategist Mike Madrid warned that both parties need to stop assuming Hispanic voters will fall neatly into traditional ideological boxes. “Latinos aren’t who you want them to be. We are who we are,” he wrote on Substack. “The party that listens will win. The one that ignores us will lose.”
Bottom Line: Will Trump Recalibrate or Double Down?
President Trump’s firm stance on immigration and economic freedom continues to resonate with millions of Americans — especially older, patriotic voters who value law, order, and national sovereignty. But the data suggests a strategic recalibration may be needed to maintain strong Hispanic support going into the midterms.
With the 2026 elections fast approaching, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both parties will be intensifying their messaging, but only one will earn the trust of this growing, influential voting bloc.