A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll sheds light on the sentiments of U.S. voters regarding the use of detention camps for immigrants who are in the country illegally awaiting deportation. The findings suggest a split opinion among Americans, with about half expressing opposition to such measures.
According to the poll, approximately 54% of registered voters opposed the use of detention camps, while 36% supported this approach. Additionally, 10% either did not provide a response or stated that they did not know. Despite this division, a majority—56%—believe that most or all immigrants in the U.S. illegally should be deported.
The issue of immigration has become a focal point in American politics, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming election. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has emphasized a tough stance on illegal immigration as a cornerstone of his reelection campaign, contrasting with the approach advocated by Democratic President Joe Biden. Trump’s proposals, including the consideration of building large camps for immigrant detention, have sparked significant debate and discussion.
While Trump has suggested the potential use of camps, he has also indicated that their necessity may be limited due to expedited deportation processes. However, former Trump immigration official Tom Homan has suggested that tents may be required to accommodate the growing number of immigrants being held for deportation, surpassing existing detention capacities. Homan emphasized that such facilities would adhere to established detention standards and rejected the characterization of them as “concentration camps.”
Biden, who defeated Trump in 2020 with promises to reverse many of his predecessor’s immigration policies, has faced challenges with record numbers of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally. In response, his administration has adopted a tougher approach to border enforcement in the lead-up to the election.
The poll also highlights significant partisan differences in views on immigration. While 85% of Republican voters believe that most or all immigrants in the U.S. illegally should be deported, only 26% of Democrats and 61% of independents share this perspective. Additionally, fewer voters across party lines agree with the idea of immigrants being arrested and placed in detention camps while awaiting deportation hearings.
Conducted online, the poll surveyed 3,208 registered voters nationwide, with margins of error ranging from about 2 to 4 percentage points depending on the demographic subgroup.
