Miami Voters Express Concern Over Federal Deportations
A recent FIU survey shows a shift in sentiment among Cuban-Americans following recent federal enforcement actions.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Immigration
Live Poll
Do you support the current scale of federal immigration enforcement actions in your community?
Miami immigration lawyer Ismael Labrador, who voted for President Donald Trump in 2024, is among many South Florida voters expressing frustration as federal authorities increase the pace of deportations. Recent enforcement actions have led to the removal of individuals like Labrador's cousin, Heydi Sanchez, and others detained at appointments or hospitals.
Why it matters
The scope of current federal deportations is creating a widening rift among South Florida Hispanic voters ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections. While many supported the administration's pledge to remove criminals, the removal of non-criminal individuals is fueling significant local opposition.
An October 2026 FIU survey found that 76% of South Florida Cuban-Americans now disapprove of the deportation of non-criminal individuals, marking a shift from the 68% support that Cuban-Americans gave Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential election.
The players
Ismael Labrador
A Miami-based immigration lawyer whose own cousin was deported.
Maria Elvira Salazar
A public official who has criticized the scale of current deportations.
Donald Trump
The current President of the United States whose administration is carrying out the enforcement program.
The details
Federal immigration agents are executing deportations following arrests at school entrances, public transport stops, sporting events, and courthouses, as well as at rescheduled ICE appointments. Recent cases include the deportation of Heydi Sanchez to Cuba and the removal of 39-year-old Grace Calero and 19-year-old Giulianna Carriel to Ecuador after their arrest at a hospital. While the administration maintains these actions fulfill central election commitments, Republican figures like Maria Elvira Salazar have publicly criticized the current scale of enforcement.
Timeline
2019: Heydi Sanchez enters the United States illegally.
November 2024: Ismael Labrador votes for Donald Trump.
October 27, 2026: FIU releases its latest survey on deportation sentiment.
November 2026: Upcoming midterm elections.
Beyond the 305
This wave of deportations is the practical execution of the immigration enforcement mandate promised during the 2024 presidential election. The current local frustration marks a departure from the political support the administration secured in South Florida two years ago.
Local families with undocumented relatives face heightened uncertainty during routine government interactions, including medical appointments and administrative check-ins. Residents are closely watching the upcoming November 2026 midterm elections for potential shifts in policy or political rhetoric.
The takeaway
The gap between campaign promises and the personal impact of mass deportations is reshaping the political landscape in Miami. Residents should monitor public statements from local congressional representatives regarding enforcement policies ahead of the November 2026 elections.
Further reading
Explore more ongoing local updates in our Immigration section.
Live Poll
Do you support the current scale of federal immigration enforcement actions in your community?
