A recent focus group of Black men who voted for Donald Trump in key swing states revealed that most of them are still firmly backing him. However, some raised concerns about his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and his tariffs, which could become issues for him among his supporters. The group, part of the 2025 Deciders series, observed by NBC News and produced by Syracuse University, Engagious, and Sago, saw participants discuss both their approval of Trump’s actions and their hesitations.
Ten out of 12 focus group members expressed continued support for Trump, saying they were happy with his actions since taking office and felt he was delivering on his promises. Only two said they wouldn’t vote for him again if they had a do-over. Even a few former Biden voters switched sides, choosing Trump in 2024.
The group had a mix of opinions on Trump’s approach to government efficiency, especially regarding DOGE’s spending audits and cuts. While some saw it as an effort to bring private-sector efficiency to the government, others were more skeptical. Dorris S., a 56-year-old independent from Pennsylvania, emphasized the need for audits, comparing it to health inspections in the restaurant business. Illya M., 37, from Arizona, also supported the idea, arguing that if Americans have to file taxes, the government should be held to the same standard.
However, not everyone was fully on board with DOGE. Some, like Denzel B., a 37-year-old Democrat from Arizona, were concerned about the potential long-term consequences of such drastic cuts. Jeffrey G., a 57-year-old Democrat from Georgia, felt Trump should have approached the cuts more carefully.
The idea of sending $5,000 checks to Americans, funded by DOGE cuts, sparked mixed reactions. While some in the group saw the checks as a good move, others, like Illya M., were uncertain about their actual benefits.
When it comes to Trump’s economic policies, the group was divided. A few felt tariffs were a necessary evil to combat inflation, but others, like Jeffrey G., disapproved, saying the process would be painful. Kasheem S., a 38-year-old independent from Pennsylvania, took a more patient approach, saying he didn’t mind if inflation continued for a while as long as it eventually balanced out.
While most participants were positive about Trump’s overall job performance, there was criticism about how he handled inflation. Some felt that Trump’s approach, like his tariffs, was tough but necessary, while others were concerned it could hurt more than help.
The group also expressed frustration with the Democratic Party. Many felt Democrats were out of touch and weak, with some accusing them of making false promises. Others criticized the Democrats for relying too heavily on celebrities and figures like Barack Obama to appeal to voters, especially Black men.
Interestingly, several participants expressed openness to supporting other Republican candidates in the future. Denzel B. said voting for Trump had made him more open to the Republican Party, especially if they continued Trump’s agenda. Thomas A. echoed this, saying Republicans could win his vote by focusing on economic policies that would directly affect him and his family.
On diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, the group was split. Four of the participants, all Democrats, supported DEI programs, believing they were necessary to address workplace inequalities. However, the rest, including many independents and Republicans, felt DEI should be eliminated, with some arguing that hiring should focus purely on qualifications. Illya M., for example, said he didn’t believe in affirmative action, stressing that the best person should get the job regardless of race.
The group also discussed Trump’s recent comments about DEI policies being linked to a deadly plane crash in January, which caused division. Some defended Trump’s stance, while others found it baseless and harmful.
Finally, when it came to the controversial idea of Trump pardoning Derek Chauvin, the former officer convicted of killing George Floyd, most of the group was against it. However, a few were willing to give Trump the benefit of the doubt, wondering if he might have information they didn’t.
In the end, the group’s responses painted a picture of Black male voters who are supportive of Trump but are increasingly wary of some of his policies. They are dissatisfied with the Democrats, feeling their concerns are often overlooked. Despite this, there’s still a sense of disillusionment with the political system as a whole, and a growing interest in exploring alternatives outside the traditional party lines.
