September 25, 2003

Abstract: (CPOD) Sept. 25, 2003 - A controversial proposal that would deny state and local welfare services to illegal immigrants has the support of Arizonans, according to a poll by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University released by KAET-TV Channel 8. 70 per cent of respondents support the initiative, called "Protect Arizona Now."

(CPOD) Sept. 25, 2003 - A controversial proposal that would deny state and local welfare services to illegal immigrants has the support of Arizonans, according to a poll by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University released by KAET-TV Channel 8. 70 per cent of respondents support the initiative, called "Protect Arizona Now."

Proponents of the plan need to gather 122,612 signatures to put it on the ballot for next year's election. Democratic governor Janet Napolitano is opposed to the proposal.

The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service estimates that 7 million illegal immigrants are currently living in the country. While California is home to most workers, Arizona, Georgia and North Carolina have the greatest rates of increase.

Polling Data

We would like your opinion about the Protect Arizona Now initiative that may be on the Arizona ballot next fall. This initiative would deny state and local social and welfare services to illegal immigrants and require people to prove they are U.S. citizens when they vote. Federally mandated services such as public education grades K thru 12 would be exempted. Overall, are you very supportive, supportive, opposed or strongly opposed to the Protect Arizona Now Initiative?

Very supportive	34%
Supportive	36%
Opposed	14%
Strongly opposed	6%

Source: Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University / KAET-TV Channel 8.
Methodology: Interviews to 390 registered Arizona voters, conducted from Sept. 18 to Sept. 21, 2003. Margin of error is 5 per cent.