Pew Research: 6 Key Findings on Mexicans' Views of the U.S. and Their Homeland

Mexicans and Mexican-Americans are a vital part of the American fabric, and their perspectives on the United States and their homeland are important to understand. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we take a look at some key findings from a recent Pew Research Center survey on these topics.

Here are six key findings from the survey:

1.Optimistic Views on Life in the U.S.

A majority of Mexicans (59%) believe that people who move to the United States have a better life there. This figure is the highest recorded since 2007, demonstrating a consistent optimism about the opportunities that the U.S. offers.

2. Improved Perceptions of U.S.-Mexico Relations

Mexicans' views of U.S.-Mexico relations have become increasingly positive. A notable 63% of Mexicans hold a favorable opinion of the U.S., while 30% have an unfavorable view. Confidence in U.S. President Joe Biden stands at 43%, a significant increase compared to former President Donald Trump's who scored 8% in 2019.

Additionally, 77% of Mexicans believe that relations between the U.S. and Mexico are currently good, marking a substantial improvement of more than 20% compared to the previous administration.

3. Comparing the U.S. with Other Nations

Mexicans view the U.S. both favorably and unfavorably when compared to other wealthy nations. On political stability and democracy, opinions vary, with about a third considering the U.S. more stable and democratic. Meanwhile, safety perceptions are divided, with 37% seeing the U.S. as comparably dangerous to its peer countries.

Interestingly, nearly half of Mexicans believe that the U.S. is less tolerant and less religious than other wealthy nations.

4. Positive Views on Economies

Mexicans generally view both the U.S. and Mexican economies positively. 40% of Mexicans see the U.S. as the world's leading economic power, and a majority of them believe this is beneficial for Mexico. Additionally, 70% of Mexicans feel that the Mexican economy has benefited from American investment.

Notably, Mexico's GDP increased by 4.5% in the first quarter of 2023, with six-in-ten Mexicans characterizing their country's economic situation as somewhat good, marking an 11-point increase since 2019.

5. High Approval for President AMLO

Mexico's President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), enjoys widespread approval among Mexicans. A staggering 82% of Mexicans have a favorable view of López Obrador, with 45% seeing him very favorably. AMLO's popularity transcends demographic groups, making him a unifying figure in Mexican politics.

6. Mixed Sentiments on Democracy

While Mexico's democracy has faced challenges, including recent concerns about the independence of the National Electoral Institute, there has been an improvement in public sentiment. About 48% of Mexicans express satisfaction with the state of democracy in their country, a 6-point increase since 2019. This contrasts starkly with the bleak sentiment in 2017 when just 6% were satisfied.

These findings provide valuable insights into the complex views of Mexicans in 2023. The survey reveals a mix of optimism and caution, with Mexicans viewing the U.S. both favorably and unfavorably. Additionally, there is widespread support for President AMLO, and public sentiment about democracy is improving. Overall, the survey provides a nuanced understanding of Mexicans' views on their country and the United States.

Click on this link to read the full report: https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/09/08/6-facts-about-how-mexicans-view-the-us-and-their-own-country/