• Immigrants' worries about detention/deportation have sharply increased, affecting their health and daily activities.
• Many immigrants report experiencing discrimination and feeling less welcome in the U.S., impacting their sense of safety.
• Economic concerns, exacerbated by immigration policies, contribute to immigrants' stress and uncertainty about their future in the U.S.

During President Trump's second term, a KFF survey and focus groups examined the experiences of immigrants in the U.S. The findings reveal a significant increase in fears related to detention and deportation, impacting their health, economic stability, and daily lives. The studies highlight the broad consequences of restrictive immigration policies and heightened enforcement, leading to increased stress, discrimination, and a sense of uncertainty among immigrant communities.

• What: Increased fears and concerns among immigrants in the U.S. due to restrictive immigration policies and enforcement.
• Who: Immigrants residing in the U.S., including naturalized citizens, lawfully present immigrants, and likely undocumented immigrants, with a focus on Hispanic adults in focus groups.
• When: Data collected and focus groups conducted during the early days of President Trump's second term (March 2025), building on surveys from 2023 and 2024.
• Where: Nationwide survey; focus groups conducted in California, Texas, New Jersey, New York, and parts of the Midwest (Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, and Nebraska).

The KFF studies paint a concerning picture of the immigrant experience under the Trump administration. The increased fears and anxieties are not limited to undocumented immigrants but extend to legal residents and even naturalized citizens. This widespread unease suggests a systemic impact of the administration's policies on immigrant communities, affecting their well-being, economic stability, and integration into American society. The combination of survey data and focus group insights provides a robust understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants and the potential long-term consequences for both individuals and the nation as a whole.

It has significantly increased the uncertainty despite me being here legally. It often feels like my status is constantly at risk, making it difficult to feel truly secure in this country.

The situation is even worse now. The 'American Dream,' I think, is not like before. Before we used to say, ‘I want to go to the United States because life is better there.’ I think everything has changed now, and it’s all so difficult.

Given us a sense of security against the criminal illegal alien; we are thankful for holding to the rule of law and protecting the US against this invasion

The KFF studies reveal a concerning trend of increased fears and anxieties among immigrants in the U.S. during President Trump's second term. These fears stem from restrictive immigration policies, heightened enforcement, and a perception of growing discrimination. The impact extends beyond immigration status, affecting health, economic well-being, and daily lives. The findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform and support services to address the challenges faced by immigrant communities and ensure their successful integration into American society. Ongoing developments in immigration policy will continue to shape the experiences of immigrants in the U.S.