A recent survey conducted by Bendixen & Amandi, involving 600 Miami-Dade voters, has revealed a clear message: although 46% approve of Donald Trump's performance, significant majorities oppose specific aspects of his recent agenda, such as ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans and allocating Miami Dade College land for a presidential library.
Data from The Miami Herald, which obtained the document released last week, shows that only 35% support removing TPS for Venezuelans, despite nearly half approving of Trump. This divide is apparent even among Republicans: while 91% endorse the former president, just 68% agree with ending TPS.
The survey was made public following a Supreme Court decision that reinstated the executive's authority to revoke this protection. In terms of leadership, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava receives a 54% approval rating, surpassing both Trump (46%) and DeSantis (47%).
Furthermore, 74% believe that the land next to Miami's Freedom Tower, donated for Trump's presidential library, should have remained with Miami Dade College. Less than 15% support the state's acquisition for the library, with 59% of Republicans concurring that the parcel should have stayed under university control. This transfer was approved during a special meeting without public debate, as highlighted by the survey.
Only 40% feel free to express opinions on social media without fear of backlash; the feeling of freedom is more prevalent among Republicans than Democrats. Regarding the use of military force to pressure Nicolás Maduro's removal, 35% are in favor, 42% oppose, and nearly a quarter remain undecided.
Approximately two-thirds of respondents reject using public funds to subsidize World Cup matches in Miami. The sample (conducted via phone and online) included 36% Republicans and 34% Democrats. The polling firm, involved in Democrat David Jolly's campaign, insists this study is unrelated to that assignment.
Insights from the Survey
The survey underscores a disconnect between general approval for Trump and rejection of specific measures (ending TPS, Miami Dade College land transfer), even within his local Republican base. There is also a noticeable climate of self-censorship on social media, with just 4 in 10 feeling free to share their opinions.
The Miami-Dade electorate differentiates between Trump's overall leadership and specific policies, supporting his administration in general terms but opposing initiatives deemed excessive or lacking transparency. Additionally, an environment of self-censorship in social media emerges, alongside fiscal pragmatism regarding major sporting events.
Key Questions about Miami-Dade's Political Climate
What percentage of Miami-Dade voters approve of Donald Trump?
46% of Miami-Dade voters approve of Donald Trump's performance according to the survey.
How do Miami-Dade voters feel about ending TPS for Venezuelans?
Only 35% of Miami-Dade voters support ending TPS for Venezuelans, showing a significant opposition to this policy.
What is the general sentiment about using Miami Dade College land for a presidential library?
74% of respondents believe the land should have remained with Miami Dade College, opposing the transfer for a presidential library.
What is the level of freedom Miami-Dade residents feel on social media?
Only 40% of Miami-Dade residents feel free to express their opinions on social media without fear of repercussions.