WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ — According to the latest Monmouth University Poll, public concern regarding illegal immigration has escalated during President Joe Biden’s administration compared to previous administrations. For the first time since the question was introduced in 2015, a majority of Americans now support constructing a border wall.
The poll indicates a significant shift in public opinion, with 61% of Americans viewing illegal immigration as a very serious problem, marking an increase from figures recorded during the Obama and Trump administrations. This concern has risen across all political groups, notably among Republicans, where it jumped from 66% in 2015 to 91% in the current poll.
Support for building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border stands at 53%, a notable increase from the Trump era, where support never surpassed 44%. This shift is observed across political affiliations, with increased support among Republicans and independents, and a decrease among Democrats.
Furthermore, the majority of Americans now believe that immigrants seeking political asylum should remain in Mexico while their claims are processed, a stance that has gained traction since 2019. Additionally, there has been an uptick in the belief that illegal immigrants are more likely to commit violent crimes, especially among Republicans.
Despite heightened concerns over crime, the American public’s views on the economic impact of illegal immigration remain relatively stable, with a majority recognizing that illegal immigrants often fill jobs unwanted by American citizens.
The Monmouth University Poll also explored public reaction to recent negotiations on a bipartisan immigration bill, finding that nearly half of Americans think the proposed measures are not stringent enough on illegal immigration. Opposition to the bill is particularly strong among Republicans and independents.
These findings highlight the complexity of immigration issues in the U.S., revealing deepening partisan divides and shifting perceptions among the American public.