Public Opinion Polls on Immigration

The general public overwhelmingly favors immigration reform. Poll after poll shows that Americans want well-enforced, sensible, and sustainable immigration laws.

• 89% of Americans think illegal immigration into the U.S. is a problem (30% "extremely serious," 33% "very serious," and 26% "somewhat serious." (Time Magazine, Jan. 2006)
• 82% think that not enough is being done along the borders to keep illegal immigrants from crossing into the country. (New York Times/CBS May 2007)
• 68% feel that the number of immigrants who cross the border, whether legal or illegal is “too high”. (Polling Company, Sept. 2006)
• 62% oppose making it easier for illegal immigrants to become citizens of America. (Quinnipiac Univ., Feb. 2006)

These are only a few examples of the many statistics demonstrating that Americans want lower immigration, greater enforcement, and more commitment to making immigration work in the best interests of the nation.

Most Recent National Polls

A Rasmussen Report Poll conducted December 2-3, 2008 of 1,000 likely voters asked: "Is the government doing enough to secure the border?"

• 74% responded "no," it is not doing enough
• 11% responded "yes."

It also asked, "Which is more important: securing the border or legalizing undocumented workers?"

• 63% responded that gaining control of the border is more important.
• 27% responded that legalization is more important.

National Polls by Topic

• Legal Immigration
• Illegal Immigration and Amnesty
• Immigration and Terrorism
• Labor Issues
• More National Polls

State Polls

Polls by Group

• African-Americans
• High School Students
• Hispanics
• International Opinion
• Jewish-Americans

Updated 12/08