Polls & Research

Americans Reject Open Border Policy

- Many adults in the United States believe their country should restrict immigration, according to a poll by Opinion Dynamics released by Fox News. 87 per cent of respondents believe the U.S. should not have open borders.

In March, the Pew Hispanic Center calculated the number of undocumented immigrants in the United States at somewhere between 11.5 million to 12 million. While California is home to most workers, Arizona, Georgia and North Carolina have the greatest rates of increase.

On May 15, 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.

On May 25, the U.S. Senate voted 62-36 to pass an immigration reform bill that places illegal immigrants in three different groups depending on the amount of time they have spent in the U.S. The plan favours persons who have lived in the U.S. for more than five years, who would have the option of becoming citizens in six years after paying penalties and back taxes, learning English, and passing a background check.

Last month, Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney discussed the situation, saying, "It is wrong for us to build an absolute concrete wall against those (immigrants) with skills and enterprise, and have a wide open door for people with no education and no skills." 32 per cent of respondents believe the U.S. could be finished within 10 years if it does not absolutely control its borders soon.

Polling Data

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? - The United States should have open borders and allow most immigrants to enter the country.

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? - If the United States doesn't absolutely control its borders soon, the country will be finished within 10 years.