A recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that Americans are increasingly concerned about legal immigrants committing crimes in the U.S., with Republicans driving this change in attitude. While Democrats continue to view immigration as beneficial, a significant portion of U.S. adults believe that legal immigrants pose more risks than benefits, particularly in terms of crime. The poll also revealed that there has been a decline in the perception of skilled immigrant workers contributing major benefits to American companies and enriching American culture, compared to previous years.
Republicans are more likely than Democrats to view immigration as a major issue, with a growing number expressing concerns about legal immigrants committing crimes in the U.S. The Republican perspective emphasizes the distinction between legal and illegal immigration, with many highlighting their contributions to the economy. However, there is a prevailing concern among Republicans regarding people in the country illegally burdening public service programs, taking American jobs, weakening American identity, and voting illegally. Despite research showing lower crime rates among immigrants, this fear persists among Republicans.
Democrats, on the other hand, remain more positive about the benefits of immigration, particularly in terms of individuals seeking a better life, escaping violence, and finding economic opportunities. While some Democrats have also expressed concerns about immigrants taking away from citizens in terms of government services, overall, they are more likely to view diversity as a strength and an integral part of American identity. The poll highlighted a decrease in the percentage of Democrats who believe that legal immigrants are making important contributions to American companies.
There is bipartisan support for addressing immigration issues at the U.S.-Mexico border, with both Republicans and Democrats favoring options such as hiring more Border Patrol agents and immigration judges to handle the backlog of cases more efficiently. However, reducing the number of immigrants allowed to seek asylum at the border is a more divisive issue, with Republicans showing greater support for this strategy compared to Democrats. Building a wall, a contentious issue championed by former President Donald Trump, remains the least popular and most polarizing option.
Despite some areas of agreement between Republicans and Democrats on addressing immigration concerns, there is a lack of consensus on how to effectively manage the influx of migrants and asylum seekers. While Congress approved funding to hire more Border Patrol agents, there has been no significant increase in resources for more immigration judges to address the backlog of asylum cases. The lengthy decision-making process for asylum cases has left many migrants waiting in limbo for years, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive and bipartisan approach to immigration reform.
