Polling Data Reveals Kamala Harris Supporters Favor Tougher Immigration Policies

Most supporters of Vice President Kamala Harris want a tougher stance on tackling illegal immigration, according to polling conducted exclusively for Newsweek, which also shows that Americans feel the U.S. has lost control of the southern border. Immigration policy is a top concern for voters in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, with our polling showing that a majority of Harris voters agree with the overwhelming majority of Donald Trump voters on tackling the border crisis.

Harris Voters Advocate for Stronger Immigration Policies

In the most recent poll from October 2024, a significant 68 percent of Americans believe that the federal government should adopt a more hardline approach to immigration. Only 10 percent oppose these measures, indicating a rising consensus across party lines. This figure has grown from 62 percent since polling began in July 2023.

Among those planning to vote for Donald Trump, a striking 87 percent support a more stringent immigration policy. However, even among Kamala Harris supporters, a clear majority of 53 percent back this approach, down slightly from 58 percent in September. This trend highlights the growing urgency for effective immigration strategies as the 2024 election approaches.

This article forms part of Newsweek's longitudinal tracker polling, which has explored various critical issues, including abortion, immigration, and the war in Ukraine, over the past 16 months. Conducted by Redfield & Wilton Strategies, the polling included 19 surveys with a total of 34,800 eligible voters to gauge their perspectives on pivotal election issues.

Political Responses to Immigration Concerns

In reaction to the polling data, Republican Rep. Mark Green, chair of the Homeland Security Committee, stated it is "no surprise that Americans are crying out" for stricter controls on migration and enhanced border security. He emphasized the need for immediate action to address the pressing challenges at the southern border.

Conversely, political science expert Brad Jones from UC Davis pointed out that the call for "hardline action" could have been addressed with the passage of a bipartisan border security bill, which unfortunately did not succeed. He indicated that the narratives surrounding undocumented immigrants create a perception of a looming threat, leading many to favor punitive approaches.

Understanding Kamala Harris's Evolving Immigration Stance

Over time, Kamala Harris's position on immigration has evolved, reflecting both her commitment to policy reform and the pressures of public opinion. While she has supported strict immigration policies, she has also advocated for fairness and humane treatment within the system. Her support for comprehensive immigration reform and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program underscores her desire to provide pathways to citizenship for young immigrants.

However, Harris also faces significant pressure to address public concerns regarding illegal immigration while appealing to both Democrats and Republicans. This balancing act is critical as she navigates the complexities of immigration policy, particularly with the upcoming election on the horizon.

Public Perception on Border Control

The polling data reveals a troubling sentiment among Americans: a growing perception that the federal government has lost control over its borders. Across the last 16 months, between 58 and 68 percent of respondents have affirmed this belief, with the most recent poll showing that 63 percent express doubt regarding the government's border management. This skepticism is particularly pronounced among Trump supporters, with nearly 80 percent believing that the U.S. lacks control.

In contrast, Harris supporters are divided, with approximately half agreeing that the borders are out of control. This division highlights the shifting public attitudes surrounding immigration and border policies, as a clear demand for tougher measures emerges across the electorate. As the election approaches, immigration is poised to remain a pivotal issue, influencing the strategies and policies of candidates on both sides.

Overall, the data indicates a critical need for effective immigration solutions that resonate with the electorate. As Americans increasingly call for stronger actions to secure the nation's borders, both major political parties may need to reconsider their positions to meet the evolving expectations and concerns of their constituents.