Mass. residents support challenging Trump’s executive orders, per WCVB poll

By João Prado

A new poll from WCVB and UMass Amherst found a majority of Massachusetts residents favor challenging President Trump’s executive orders. Of the 700 residents surveyed between Feb. 14 and Feb. 20, over half of them believe Gov. Maura Healey, the state legislature, and the Mass. Congressional Delegation should push back “a lot” against Trump’s executive orders that conflict with state law or the U.S. Constitution. The poll also found 48% of residents strongly support Mass. Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s involvement in lawsuits against the Trump administration.

When asked about several of President Trump’s executive orders, 44% strongly opposed the ending of all DEI programs, while 25% strongly supported the measure. Respondents were nearly split on orders to officially recognize two sexes and to ban federal funds that would provide gender-affirming care for minors and support programs that allow transgender athletes in female sports.

On Feb. 14, hundreds in Boston marched to protest policies perceived as harmful to marginalized communities. The rally, backed by over 100 civil rights, environmental, and progressive groups, highlighted concerns about the rights of women, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other vulnerable populations. Speakers emphasized the necessity of political leaders opposing agendas threatening to erode federal protections and civil liberties.

On Feb. 12, Worcester, Mass., leaders voted 9-2 to become a “transgender sanctuary city.” The decision rebuffs federal policies that are discriminatory against transgender individuals, reaffirming a commitment to protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

The UMass Amherst/WCVB poll reiterated Massachusetts’ strong opposition to Trump, with only a 32% approval rating for him compared to 52% for Gov. Healey.