A Pew study in February revealed that 70% of Republicans viewed the challenges at the southern border as a “crisis,” contrasting with only 22% of Democrats. Another poll conducted by Gallup last year indicated that 73% of Republicans wanted a decrease in immigration, while only 18% of Democrats shared the same view. Additionally, Republicans were more likely to believe that immigrants worsen the country’s social and moral values, job opportunities, and taxes.
The division over immigration issues can be traced back to the 1960s, where the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 played a significant role. This act, influenced by the civil rights movement, aimed to eliminate the immigrant quota system based on nationality, race, and ancestry, leading to increased immigration from Asian, African, and Latin American countries. These demographic changes have set the stage for the current political discord surrounding immigration.
Despite the differences, there are areas of agreement.
Historically, American voters have expressed a desire for compromise from lawmakers, with a focus on providing legal pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants while also enhancing border security and law enforcement measures. This sentiment was consistent in Pew surveys from 2010 to 2018.
Recent studies, such as the Pew survey from February, highlight a growing concern among Americans regarding the situation at the border. The majority, including both Republicans and Democrats, have given negative ratings to the Biden administration’s handling of immigration. While there is frustration with Washington’s inaction on the issue, polling indicates support for policies to address the situation.
Despite political gridlock, the February Pew poll revealed that most Americans agree on certain measures to improve the situation. Approximately 60% of respondents, including 40% of Republicans, believed that increasing the number of immigration judges and staff at the border would be beneficial. Similarly, about 56% thought that creating more legal pathways for immigration would help address the challenges.
Reporting by Ruth Igielnik
