Recent polling indicates a significant shift in voter trust on immigration, with Republicans now holding a 15-point advantage over Democrats, up from a 13-point lead in 2018. The data, presented by CNN analyst Nate Cohn’s colleague during a February 26, 2026 segment on CNN News Central, reflects broad public sentiment that voters increasingly associate the GOP with stronger border security and immigration enforcement.

The survey, conducted by SSRS, highlights that despite high-profile protests against ICE operations in cities such as Minneapolis and Los Angeles, and ongoing Democratic campaigns criticizing deportations, voters continue to place greater confidence in Republican policies and leadership on immigration issues. This represents a dramatic reversal from 2018, when Democrats held a modest 6-point edge in public trust on the topic.

Commentators on the CNN segment emphasized that Democrats are now in a weaker position on immigration than during President Trump’s first term, with voter sentiment showing heightened concern over border security. Republicans’ credibility on this issue has grown, with their perceived competence on protecting the border rising from a 13-point lead in 2018 to 15 points today. Analysts suggest that this shift may be influenced by widespread public backlash against what many see as lenient border policies and the national discourse surrounding illegal immigration.

The polling results signal a critical factor for the 2026 midterm elections. With immigration remaining a top concern for many voters, Republicans’ strengthened position provides them with a clear advantage in messaging and policy proposals. Democratic strategists face mounting pressure to address these voter perceptions and demonstrate actionable solutions that can rebuild trust on this pivotal issue.

As the political landscape evolves, this new data underscores the importance of immigration as a decisive issue in upcoming elections. The GOP’s ability to maintain and expand this advantage could play a key role in shaping voter turnout, candidate positioning, and the broader narrative surrounding national security and border enforcement policies.