August 24, 2007

Abstract: (Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most people in the United States would back a proposal to make all foreign workers and students carry a uniform identification card, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 71 per cent of respondents favour this idea, while 16 per cent oppose it.

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most people in the United States would back a proposal to make all foreign workers and students carry a uniform identification card, according to a poll by Rasmussen Reports. 71 per cent of respondents favour this idea, while 16 per cent oppose it.

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.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate discussed and rejected a revised immigration bill, which would have allowed 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 included 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.

Former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, who is seeking the Republican Party's presidential nomination in 2008, has said that—if elected—he would implement a uniform identification card for foreign workers and students, and create a database to track the legal status of visitors to the country. Giuliani has also vowed to deport any illegal immigrant who commits a felony, and compel all immigrants who want to become citizens to learn English.

On Aug. 14, Giuliani said at a campaign event: "We can end illegal immigration. I promise you, we can end illegal immigration."

Original Release from Rasmussen Reports

Polling Data

Would you favour or oppose the creation of a uniform identification card for all foreign workers and students in the United States?

Favour	71%
Oppose	16%

Source: Rasmussen Reports
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 800 likely American voters, conducted on Aug. 15 and Aug. 16, 2007. Margin of error is 3.5 per cent.