Exit polls conducted during the 2026 midterm elections reveal that immigration enforcement, particularly Trump’s deportation policies, still enjoys support from various voter demographics, despite the GOP’s loss of control in Congress.
Economy-related issues were deemed most pressing by 39 percent of voters, followed by democracy concerns at 32 percent. Immigration was highlighted by another 14 percent of respondents, as shown by analyses from Newsweek.
NBC News exit polling illustrated that 57 percent believed the immigration actions of the past administration were excessive, while approximately 20 to 21 percent felt they didn’t go far enough, and 22 to 23 percent thought they were appropriately balanced. Approval ratings for Immigration and Customs Enforcement showed a distinct disapproval, with only 40 percent of respondents expressing approval.
Such data was gathered through interviews conducted as voters left polling stations.
POLL: Did You Vote Republican In The Midterms?
NBC News exit poll
Which party is better able to handle immigration?
Republican Party 44%
Democratic Party 40%
Neither 16% pic.twitter.com/06p1HmYvnV— Politics & Poll Tracker
(@PollTracker2024) November 3, 2026
Although many voters felt enforcement had escalated too much, Republicans still slightly edged out Democrats on handling immigration, with 44 percent opting for the GOP compared to 41 percent for the Democrats. Notably, among those who prioritized immigration, support for Republican candidates soared, with only 9 percent backing Democrats.
A significant 73 percent labeled immigration enforcement policies as a crucial or major element influencing their congressional vote. Among those considering it essential, 58 percent leaned Republican, while around half of all respondents acknowledging its importance also supported GOP candidates.
Support for Republicans soared to 91 percent among voters who believed enforcement was insufficient, whereas those thinking it had gone too far largely leaned Democratic at 89 percent. Economic issues also weighed heavily on voter minds; 89 percent noted affordability as a critical factor, with 75 percent rating the economy as “not so good” or “poor.” Concerns were particularly high regarding gas, diesel, and grocery prices, and majorities of those affected leaned Democratic.
In a notable shift, Latino voters experienced a noticeable shift towards the Democrats, with around 60 to 62 percent backing Democratic House candidates compared to 40 to 46 percent who had supported Trump two years prior.
