As we have reported in recent issues, new polls are beginning to show a pronounced shift in the public’s attitudes towards immigrants. After anti-immigration attitudes peaked in the early 1990s, new polls are showing a much more tolerant attitude. A recent poll conducted by PBS for its STATE OF THE UNION television program shows that only 46% of those polled believe immigration levels should be lowered or stopped altogether. A pool four years ago found that 65% held such a view. 79% of those surveyed agreed with the statement that “the blending of many different cultures into one culture is one of the factors that make the USA unique in the world.” 19% disagreed with this. By a margin of 59% to 36% respondents said they are not concerned that immigration will lead to whites of European descent becoming a minority. The poll did show Americans are still anxious about certain aspects of immigration policy. Nearly 4 out of 5 people polled said they are concerned immigrants will overburden the welfare system and raise taxes. Nearly two thirds are concerned about immigrants taking jobs from Americans and a similar number are concerned about immigration causing greater racial conflict.The poll was conducted for PBS by Princeton Survey Research Associates.
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