CNN Poll: Secure the Border or Pathway to Citizenship

A new CNN/ORC International poll of American citizens asks the chicken and the egg question regarding immigration: is it more important to fix the border or to create a better pathway to citizenship?

The survey of 1,010 American adults, conducted from January 31-February 2, 2014, revealed the shifting opinions of the American populace when it comes to the issue of immigration.  54% of respondents believed the main focus should be on developing a plan to allow illegal immigrants with jobs the chance to become legal residents.  Only 41% believed the main priority should be stopping the flow of illegal immigrants into the country and deporting those already here.

For perspective, in May of 2010 those numbers were essentially flipped with 38% stressing a legal path to citizenship and 60% advocating a plan for stopping the flow of illegal immigrants.

What has caused the flip in majority position?  One hypothesis is that the changing demographics of the populace has reversed prevailing sentiment.  69% of non-white respondents said the emphasis should be on allowing illegal immigrants a pathway to citizenship.  Age also has a role to play.  Among respondents aged 18-34, 68% believed a legal pathway to citizenship should be the primary focus.

Whatever the cause, a majority of Americans now believe the primary focus of government in the immigration debate should revolve around finding an agreeable path to citizenship for illegal immigrants.

To see the full results and additional questions, click here.