Immigration: Key Data Points from Pew Research
A solid majority of Americans say there should be a way for people in the U.S. illegally to remain, but the public is more divided on the issue of citizenship.
Most Say Immigration Policy Needs Overhaul
While 73% say there should be a way for illegal immigrants already in the U.S. who meet certain requirements to stay, fewer than half (44%) favor allowing those here illegally to apply for U.S. citizenship and 25% think permanent legal status is more appropriate.
Public Undecided On New Immigration Bill
Much of the public has yet to form an opinion about the immigration bill and most Americans do not think the bill would have a major impact on the nation’s economy or security. Overall, the debate over immigration policy has drawn little public attention.
Most Support Legal Status for Illegal Immigrants
Most Americans say unauthorized immigrants should be allowed to stay, but there is less agreement on whether they should be able to apply for U.S. citizenship.
If No Deal is Struck, Four-in-Ten Say Let the Sequester Happen
After a series of fiscal crises over the past few years, the public is not expressing a particular sense of urgency over the pending March 1 sequester deadline.
Immigration Q&A: Pew Research Data on Public Opinion and the Immigrant Population
Will Conservative Talkers Take on Immigration Reform?
Nearly six years after the U.S. Senate defeated President George W. Bush’s immigration policy overhaul, there is another major legislative effort to change the nation’s immigration system.
U.S. Immigrant Population Continues to Grow
The nation’s immigrant population reached a record 40.4 million in 2011, while the number of unauthorized immigrants has declined from a 2007 peak of 12 million.
After Divisive Campaign, Public Sees Less Group Conflict
Despite a highly partisan election year, Americans now see less conflict between groups at center of key debates.
