A recent survey shows that most Californians support providing essential services to all low-income residents, regardless of their immigration status. This finding comes amid President Trump’s ongoing crackdown on unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. The survey, conducted by the California Community Foundation, highlights a significant disconnect between the state’s values and the federal government’s stance on immigration.
The poll surveyed 800 California voters between March 19 and 24, revealing that a majority of respondents believe immigrants play a vital role in the state’s economy and quality of life. Miguel Santana, president of the California Community Foundation, emphasized that Californians recognize the importance of immigrants and want to ensure they have access to basic services, such as healthcare.
The results indicate strong support for allowing all state residents to buy health insurance through Covered California, regardless of immigration status. Currently, unauthorized immigrants cannot purchase plans through the state’s health insurance marketplace. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of those surveyed support food assistance for low-income families, regardless of the parents’ immigration status. Currently, undocumented immigrants are excluded from California’s food stamp program but can apply for assistance on behalf of their U.S.-born children.
Furthermore, 57% of respondents favor allowing all eligible low-income residents to access medical care through Medi-Cal, the state’s public health insurance program, regardless of immigration status. California made headlines last year by becoming the first state to offer health insurance to all low-income undocumented immigrants. This expansion, however, has led to increased costs that have exceeded budget estimates.
The survey reflects a broader sentiment among voters, including moderate and swing voters, who see undocumented immigrants as essential to California’s economy. Many expressed concerns about the potential economic fallout from mass deportations, fearing that such actions could raise grocery prices and harm small businesses.
In stark contrast, national polls have shown that many Americans support the Trump administration’s tough immigration policies. However, about 60% of California voters believe in ensuring all residents have access to due process, regardless of their immigration status. This suggests that the administration’s framing of deportation as a public safety issue is not resonating with voters in California.
Experts believe this survey underscores a growing desire among Californians to integrate immigrants more fully into the state’s social fabric, rather than push them out. Advocates for immigrant rights see this as a positive indication of public support for increased funding for legal services and healthcare access for undocumented individuals.
The California Community Foundation’s survey is part of a larger trend in the state, where about 27% of residents are foreign-born, the highest percentage in the nation. Approximately 1.8 million of these immigrants are undocumented, representing about 7% of the state’s workforce, with many working in critical sectors like agriculture.
As California continues to grapple with the implications of federal immigration policies, this survey highlights a clear message from its residents: they value the contributions of immigrants and want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their legal status, has access to essential services.