A recent study published by EWTN and RealClear Opinion Research revealed that a majority of American Catholics support the death penalty for convicted murderers and the broad-scale deportation of immigrants who are in the United States illegally. The poll, conducted from November 9-11, 2025, surveyed 1,000 American voters who identify as Catholics to explore their opinions on these issues.
The study found that 55% of U.S. Catholics support the death penalty “for a person convicted of murder,” while 20% said they oppose the death penalty, and 25% are unsure. Among those who attend Mass regularly, 52% support the death penalty, just 16% oppose it, and 27% are unsure. It is important to note that the Catholic Church opposes the death penalty because it disregards the inviolability and dignity of the person and is no longer necessary to protect society (Catechism, n. 2267).
Regarding immigration enforcement, the poll showed that 54% of U.S. Catholics support “the detention and deportation of unauthorized immigrants on a broad scale,” with 30% opposing this policy and 17% neither supporting nor opposing it. The Church teaches that the issue of immigration must be addressed in a manner that is both just and merciful (Catechism, n. 2241), distinguishing between violent criminals and those who are fleeing persecution or crushing poverty to seek a better life. Click here to read the 2025 statement of the Missouri Catholic Conference on immigration.