As the Trump administration implements its 2025 agenda, public sentiment on his policies varies by issue and party affiliation. The latest Marquette Law School Poll, conducted from January 27 to February 5, surveyed Wisconsinites on several key policy proposals. The findings highlight strong support for conservative initiatives among Republicans, mixed reactions among independents, and overwhelming opposition from Democrats.

The results of the Marquette Law School Poll underscore deep partisan divisions in Wisconsin’s electorate. Policies focused on immigration enforcement, gender definitions, and energy production enjoy strong Republican support and find moderate backing among independents. However, more extreme proposals—such as reclaiming the Panama Canal and renaming the Gulf of Mexico—lack broad appeal outside Trump’s base.

Recognizing Only Male and Female Sexes

One of the most widely supported policies in the survey is Trump’s initiative to recognize only male and female sexes in federal policy. This proposal aims to eliminate government recognition of non-binary and transgender identities in official documents, sports, and legal protections.

• Total support: 63%
• Republicans: 94%
• Independents: 66%
• Democrats: 27%

The near unanimous support among Republicans signals alignment with Trump’s emphasis on traditional definitions of gender. Independents largely favor this policy, while Democratic opposition remains high but nearly 3/10 voters favor Trump’s approach on two sexes. 

Deportation of Illegal Immigrants

Trump’s immigration policies remain central to his administration, with broad support for deporting those in the U.S. illegally. This policy prioritizes border enforcement and aims to reduce the number of undocumented individuals residing in the country.

• Total support: 60%
• Republicans: 93%
• Independents: 51%
• Democrats: 29%

Support among Republicans is nearly unanimous, while independents are divided. Democrats overwhelmingly oppose the measure, reflecting their broader stance on immigration reform. 

Expanding Oil and Gas Production

The administration’s push to boost domestic energy production through deregulation and new drilling projects is another widely supported initiative. The policy is intended to strengthen American energy independence, reduce reliance on foreign oil, and lower energy costs.

• Total support: 60%
• Republicans: 92%
• Independents: 55%
• Democrats: 27%

The bipartisan nature of energy policy is reflected in moderate independent support, though Democratic voters remain resistant due to environmental concerns and an agenda focused on climate change over energy production especially in the fossil fuel industry. 

Declaring an Emergency on the Southern Border

Trump’s move to declare a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border aims to expedite security measures, including increased funding for border patrol, deportations, and potential construction of additional barriers. It was a large campaign promise. 

• Total support: 59%
• Republicans: 90%
• Independents: 51%
• Democrats: 29%

Much like the general deportation policy, this measure enjoys high approval among Republicans, with independents again split. Even though Democrats overwhelming oppose the policy to have 3/10 Democrats in favor of the Trump administration position on a hot issue like this is significant.

Deportation of Illegal Immigrants, Including Those Without Criminal Records

A more controversial aspect of Trump’s immigration plan involves deporting individuals residing in the U.S. illegally, even those without a criminal record.

• Total support: 43%
• Republicans: 67%
• Independents: 31%
• Democrats: 22%

Support drops significantly when the question includes immigrants without criminal records, with only 31% of independents and 22% of Democrats in favor.

Taking Back the Panama Canal

A less conventional policy proposal, Trump’s call to reclaim the Panama Canal reflects his broader emphasis on restoring American geopolitical influence. However, the policy has not gained widespread public approval. 

• Total support: 35%
• Republicans: 63%
• Independents: 29%
• Democrats: 6%

Republicans show moderate support, while independents remain skeptical, and Democrats overwhelmingly reject the idea. The Trump administration has not convincing laid out its reasoning and the importance of the Panama Canal, especially as it relates to the economy,  and China’s influence in the region. 

Pardoning January 6 Defendants

Trump’s pledge to pardon individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 Capitol riot remains one of the most polarizing policies in the survey.

• Total support: 34%
• Republicans: 68%
• Independents: 22%
• Democrats: 4%

While a majority of Republicans support pardons, independent support is weak, and Democrats remain firmly opposed.

Renaming the Gulf of Mexico

One of Trump’s more symbolic proposals—renaming the Gulf of Mexico—has received the least support among the surveyed policies.

• Total support: 29%
• Republicans: 57%
• Independents: 16%
• Democrats: 4%