Black Californians overwhelmingly disapprove of federal immigration policies, reflecting broader concerns about civil rights and enforcement practices, according to a new statewide survey.
The poll, conducted by the Berkeley IGS Poll, found strong opposition to immigration policies under President Donald Trump across multiple demographic groups, including Black voters. The findings highlight growing concern that current enforcement actions may harm not only undocumented immigrants but also U.S. citizens.
Overall, 64% of California voters disapprove of the administration’s immigration policies, with 57% saying they strongly disapprove. The poll also found that nearly half of voters, 45%, are concerned that they or someone close to them could be detained under current policies.
Among Black voters, concerns about detention are widespread, with about half reporting they are very or somewhat worried that they, a family member or a close friend could be detained. The findings suggest that fears about immigration enforcement extend beyond immigrant communities.
“The results show a continuous distrust of Trump immigration practices, with tactics that seem to undercut legal rights… receiving the lowest approval, especially among Democrats,” said G. Cristina Mora, co-director of the poll.
The survey also found broad skepticism toward federal immigration agencies. Six in ten voters statewide said they have little or no trust in agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Border Patrol to fairly enforce immigration laws.
Large majorities of voters oppose key enforcement tactics. About 79% said immigration agents should not be allowed to enter homes without a judge-approved warrant, while two in three oppose agents wearing masks while on duty.
Support for state and local intervention is also high. About 68% of voters said local authorities should step in if they witness unlawful detentions or excessive force by federal agents.
The poll revealed deep partisan divides. While most Democrats and independent voters disapprove of federal immigration policies, large majorities of Republicans support them.
The survey was conducted March 9 to 15 among 5,109 registered voters in California.