by the El Reportero staff
A new national poll offers a nuanced look at how Americans perceive Mexico and the broader U.S.-Mexico relationship, revealing a complex mix of appreciation, concern and political division.
The survey, conducted by Echelon Insights in partnership with organizations focused on bilateral relations, gathered responses from over 1,000 registered U.S. voters. Its findings come at a time when the relationship between the two neighboring countries remains deeply interconnected economically and culturally, yet increasingly shaped by debates over security, migration and trade.
According to the poll, 44 percent of Americans hold a favorable view of Mexico, while 38 percent report an unfavorable opinion. Although this places Mexico in net positive territory, its standing is noticeably lower than that of other U.S. allies such as Canada and the United Kingdom. The data also suggests that favorable perceptions have declined compared to previous years, indicating a shift in public sentiment.
Security concerns appear to play a central role in shaping negative views. A majority of respondents identified cross-border criminal activity, particularly involving drug cartels, as the primary factor influencing their perception of Mexico as a problematic neighbor. Closely tied to this concern is the ongoing fentanyl crisis, which many Americans associate with trafficking networks that extend across the U.S.-Mexico border.
Migration is another key issue affecting public opinion. A significant portion of respondents expressed concern about unauthorized immigration, linking it to broader anxieties about border control and national security. Economic factors also contribute to negative perceptions, with some Americans citing fears of job displacement and competition from Mexican industries.
Despite these concerns, the poll highlights several areas where Americans recognize Mexico as a valuable partner. Tourism ranks as one of the most frequently cited reasons for viewing Mexico positively, reflecting the millions of Americans who travel there each year. In addition, strong trade relations and cultural exchange continue to reinforce the sense of interdependence between the two countries.
When asked directly whether Mexico is a good or bad neighbor, about four in ten respondents described it as a good neighbor, while a smaller share characterized it negatively. However, a substantial number of participants remained neutral or unsure, underscoring the complexity of public opinion and the lack of a clear consensus.
Political affiliation plays a significant role in shaping these views. Democrats are generally more likely to hold favorable opinions of Mexico and to support policies that emphasize cooperation and economic integration. Republicans, on the other hand, tend to express more negative views, particularly in relation to border security, drug trafficking and immigration.
These divisions are also evident in attitudes toward trade policy. The poll found that most Democrats oppose imposing broad tariffs on Mexican imports, arguing that such measures could harm both economies. In contrast, a majority of Republicans support tariffs as a tool to protect American industries and address perceived imbalances in trade.
The future of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) remains another area of uncertainty. While some respondents expressed support for extending the trade agreement, nearly half indicated they were unsure or lacked sufficient information to form an opinion. This uncertainty suggests that trade policy, despite its importance, is not fully understood by the general public.
The survey also explored perceptions related to shared international events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Responses were mixed, with many Americans expressing indifference and others divided between enthusiasm and skepticism. This reflects a broader trend in which global events do not always translate into stronger public engagement with international partnerships.
Overall, the poll paints a picture of a relationship defined by both cooperation and tension. The United States and Mexico share one of the most significant economic partnerships in the world, supported by extensive trade, tourism and cultural ties. At the same time, persistent concerns over security, migration and economic competition continue to shape public attitudes.
For policymakers on both sides of the border, the findings highlight the importance of addressing these concerns while reinforcing the benefits of collaboration. As the two nations navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, public perception will remain a key factor influencing the direction of their relationship.
– With report by Mexico News Daily chief staff writer Peter Davies.
