Trump’s Return Lifts U.S. Immigration Support to 79% and Free-Trade Backing to 65%
Updated
Updated · The Globe and Mail · May 9
Trump’s Return Lifts U.S. Immigration Support to 79% and Free-Trade Backing to 65%
11 articles · Updated · The Globe and Mail · May 9
79% of Americans now call immigration a good thing, up from 64% in 2024, while 65% say free-trade agreements drive U.S. growth, versus 59% in 2024 and 41% in 2016.
The report argues Trump’s tariffs and mass-deportation agenda made the alternative tangible, pushing voters toward more favorable views of both immigration and freer trade; 46% now back a no-restrictions trade policy.
Abroad, major economies have accelerated trade pacts to reduce dependence on Washington, with the EU advancing deals with Mercosur, India, Indonesia and Australia while U.S.-EU trade talks remain stalled.
Europe’s response has also extended to security: NATO members are rearming and debating structures beyond U.S. leadership as doubts grow over Trump’s commitment to Article 5 and his posture toward Russia.
How is the global economy adapting as major powers forge trade deals that deliberately bypass the United States?
As allies rearm and build new security pacts, is the transatlantic alliance fracturing beyond repair?