A recent survey conducted for the pro-migration Chicago Council of Global Affairs found that half of all Americans believe that large numbers of immigrants and refugees pose a critical threat to their nation. The majority of respondents, especially Republicans and swing voters, expressed concerns about migration as well as its negative impact on American society.
The survey also revealed that 61% of Republicans and 37% of all respondents believe that “immigrants from other cultures have a mainly negative impact on American society.” In addition, the study found that 55% of Americans favor constructing a border wall between the United States and Mexico.
According to the report, about 40% of respondents are largely ignoring the issue of migration, which may lead to further increases in opposition towards immigration policy. This passivity is encouraged by GOP strategists and legislators who downplay the economic impact of such policies, usually under pressure from donors.
The majority of Americans (65%) oppose detaining millions of undocumented immigrants in mass detention camps, while a majority of Republicans (57%) support it. The survey also showed that investor interests may play a role in keeping illegal immigrants in the United States as consumers, renters, and workers.
The report emphasized that “Republican views of immigrants and immigration policy largely diverge from overall American attitudes.” In 2010, Americans were divided over whether undocumented immigrants took jobs away from Americans who needed them or if they took jobs no one wanted. Today, a majority of Americans believe the latter (69.
The Chicago Council survey aligns with other polls showing rising public concern and opposition towards government-engineered mass migration into American society. A July Harvard-Harris poll revealed that 62% of Americans support former President Donald Trump’s promise to carry out “the largest deportation operation in American history.” Meanwhile, a Gallup poll found that 55% of Americans want reductions in migration levels, with just 16% supporting more migration.