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American voters’ immigration views shift as support for legal pathways dips slightly

Legal immigration remains widely supported, yet cracks appear in key sectors. Why are voters rethinking their stance on doctors, IT workers, and farm laborers?

On this poster there is a tree, fence, wall and something written on this poster.
On this poster there is a tree, fence, wall and something written on this poster.

A new survey has revealed shifting opinions among American voters on immigration. While support for legal pathways remains strong, some attitudes have changed since August. The findings show a mix of approval and concern over different types of immigration.

The survey found that 67% of voters still believe legal immigration benefits the U.S., but views on illegal immigration remain negative. Only 17% think both legal and illegal immigration are harmful, while 10% support all forms of immigration.

Support for creating legal pathways has softened in some areas. In August, 74% backed legal immigration, but that number has since dropped. For doctors and nurses, 64% now consider it 'very important' to establish legal routes, down from 71% in August. Meanwhile, 43% feel the same about IT workers, and 51% prioritise pathways for cooks and cleaners.

Opinions on the current number of legal immigrants vary. While 23% say there are 'too many'—up from 19% in August—41% believe the number is 'about right'. Another 14% argue there are 'too few'. The survey also showed strong backing for seasonal farmworkers, with 60% supporting increased legal pathways for them.

The results highlight a nuanced picture of immigration attitudes in the U.S. Legal immigration continues to receive broad approval, though enthusiasm has dipped in certain sectors. Meanwhile, concerns about illegal immigration persist, shaping the overall debate on policy.

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