A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that public opinion in Mexico towards the United States has significantly worsened since President Donald Trump resumed office.
As of early 2025, approximately 69% of Mexicans hold an unfavorable view of the United States, a sharp decline from the previous year when 61% viewed the U.S. favorably and only 33% unfavorably.
The survey, which involved face-to-face interviews with 1,050 adults conducted between February 12 and March 25, 2025, indicates a dramatic 32 percentage point drop in favorable perceptions of the U.S., marking the steepest change among the 24 countries surveyed this year.
Mexican adults also express overwhelming disapproval of President Donald Trump, with 91% indicating they have little to no confidence in him to handle world affairs.
This is notably worse than the previous administration, as only 60% expressed similar sentiments regarding former President Joe Biden in 2024.
Trump’s immigration policies have further exacerbated these negative views, as 87% of Mexicans lack confidence in his ability to manage immigration effectively, making them the most critical of his immigration handling compared to other countries surveyed.
Regarding the management of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, the report notes a sharp decrease in migrant encounters since Trump’s return to office in January.
During the survey period, two-thirds of Mexicans (68%) asserted that the U.S. government is performing poorly in addressing the high number of individuals seeking asylum at the border.
This is a significant rise from last year, when 52% held the same view, highlighting worsening perceptions of U.S. immigration policy under Trump.
In contrast, the Mexican government is viewed more positively by its citizens, with 68% expressing approval of its handling of the border, an increase from 60% in 2024.
Support for the ruling Morena party, as well as its coalition partners, the Labor Party (PT) and the Ecologist Green Party of Mexico (PVEM), correlates with these positive views.
Among supporters of these parties, 74% believe the Mexican government is doing a good job, whereas support is somewhat lower at 60% among those who do not align with the governing parties.
The findings suggest a clear divide in perceptions of governance and policy on both sides of the border, with notable criticism directed towards the U.S. under Trump.
As Mexicans continue to grapple with sentiments surrounding their northern neighbor, the survey underscores the challenges ahead for U.S.-Mexico relations amidst shifting political landscapes.
image source from：pewresearch
