(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most people in the United States would offer millions of undocumented workers living in the country the chance to legalize their status, according to a poll by TNS released by the Washington Post and ABC News. 52 per cent of respondents would support a program giving illegal immigrants the chance to stay after paying a fine and meeting other requirements.

In March 2006, the Pew Hispanic Center calculated the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. at somewhere between 11.5 million to 12 million. 53 per cent of respondents would support significantly expanding the guest worker program that allows people from other countries to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis.

In May 2006, U.S. president George W. Bush addressed the nation to discuss his immigration proposals. Bush outlined five clear objectives: securing the borders, creating a temporary worker program, holding employers to account for the workers they hire, allowing illegal immigrants "who have roots" in the country to apply for citizenship, and helping newcomers assimilate into American society.

Last month, the U.S. Senate discussed a revised immigration bill, which would allow illegal immigrants to come forward and obtain a "Z visa." After paying fees, a $5,000 U.S. fine and then returning to their home countries, they could apply for permanent residency, which could be granted in eight to 13 years. The bill also includes a proposal to introduce a points system that would prioritize access to the U.S. for skilled and educated immigrants, as well as new family-reunification guidelines.

On May 24, the U.S. Senate voted 66-29 to keep a provision on the bill that offers legal status to most illegal immigrants living in the country. The controversial terms are regarded by some lawmakers as "amnesty" and "impunity."

On Jun. 5, Colorado congressman Tom Tancredo, who is seeking the Republican Party's presidential nomination in 2008, voiced opposition to the proposed bill, saying, "We believe it is the worst piece of legislation that has come down the pike in a long time. For a Republican to be talking about other Republicans, trying to take them on and defeat them in primaries, that's a somewhat injudicious thing for me to do. But this is an issue that surpasses all the niceties that go along with political camaraderie that you develop."

Polling Data

Would you support or oppose a program giving illegal immigrants now living in the United States the right to live here legally if they pay a fine and meet other requirements?

Would you support or oppose significantly expanding the guest worker program that allows people from other countries to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis?

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