Polling News

Americans are more skeptical about how the U.S. is handling illegal drugs than at any point since Gallup started tracking the measure in 1972.  

Why It Matters: As the crisis at the Southern border continues, the issue has expanded beyond illegal immigration and national security. The growing amount of illegal drugs crossing the border has made every state a border state. This has led to a spike in overdoses caused from drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamines. 

By The Numbers:

• Fifty-two percent say the U.S. has lost ground in handling the illegal drug problem. Only 24% said the U.S. has made progress. When Gallup first asked this question in 1972, those numbers were 41%/35%, respectively. 
• While only 40% of Democrats say the U.S. has made progress, just 22% of Independents and 12% of Republicans say the same. 
• Seventy-five percent of Republicans say the U.S. has lost ground on this issue, compared to 52% of Independents and 27% of Democrats. 

The Bottom Line: Drug deaths nationwide hit a new record in 2022, with 109,680 Americans dying. The influx of dangerous drugs into communities across the country is happening at the same time as a record of illegal border crossings. While not all illegal crossings are connected to drugs, fentanyl seizures are at a record high, a sign that the two are connected. This issue will remain a top three issue that cuts across party lines and will play out in the presidential primaries and down ballot races, as every state is now a border state.