Recent focus group discussions conducted by Syracuse University in collaboration with research firms Engagious and Sago have examined the sentiments of voters who supported President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. These discussions included over 50 participants from diverse backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and young voters, and revealed increasing discontent regarding Trump's handling of economic issues and immigration policies.

Initially, many participants expressed strong support for Trump, particularly regarding his economic approach. However, there has been a noticeable rise in frustration over inflation and the cost of living. Voters who once believed in Trump's business acumen are now questioning his effectiveness in addressing these critical issues. Some participants indicated that they expected more decisive action on inflation, which they viewed as a key reason for their support.

The focus groups highlighted a divide among Trump supporters concerning his tariff policies. While some voters appreciated the intention behind tariffs as a means to balance international trade, others criticized them as detrimental to American consumers, viewing them as a tax that ultimately burdens the public. Reports from NBC News corroborate that earlier in the year, some Hispanic voters expressed confidence in Trump's tariffs, believing they were part of a larger strategy. However, a growing number of voters now perceive these tariffs as harmful to American consumers, with some describing Trump's claims about inflation as 'delusional' and indicative of being 'out of touch.'

In terms of immigration, most participants supported Trump's efforts to reduce illegal border crossings. However, significant concerns were raised regarding the administration's deportation policies, with many voters expressing discomfort over the treatment of undocumented immigrants. Some participants highlighted a perceived inconsistency in prioritizing the deportation of violent criminals over individuals who posed little threat to public safety. This has led to a moral dilemma for some voters, who struggle to reconcile their support for Trump with the humanitarian implications of his immigration policies. Criticism has also emerged regarding the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with accusations of unjust deportations affecting hardworking individuals rather than those with criminal backgrounds. This sentiment was echoed by a Virginia independent voter who described ICE's actions as akin to 'kidnapping.' Additionally, younger voters have voiced that the treatment of undocumented immigrants contradicts their conservative values.

Overall, while Trump maintains a base of support, the focus groups reveal a complex landscape of voter sentiment, characterized by a mix of loyalty and growing skepticism regarding his administration's economic and immigration strategies. These shifts may have significant implications for Trump's political standing as he approaches future elections.