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GOP Gains Ground on Immigration Debate
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In a political season when most of the news has been bad for Republicans, the Congressional debate over immigration has produced a bit of movement in favor of the GOP.

The latest Rasmussen Reports national opinion survey found that 37% of Americans now trust Republicans more than Democrats on the issue of immigration. Just 31% trust the Democrats more.

In late March, the two parties were perceived equally on the topic, with 38% favoring the GOP and 37% preferring the Democrats.

Americans remain divided on the issue itself. Just 41% favor letting immigrants move towards citizenship by paying a fine, paying back taxes, and learning to speak English. Forty-two percent (42%) are opposed.

Forty-two percent (42%) believe a barrier along the Mexican border would significantly reduce immigration while 39% disagree.

Still, 57% believe a barrier should be built. Just 31% disagree.

A separate survey found that, in a hypothetical race for Congress, a plurality of Americans would vote for the candidate who favors more enforcement on the immigration issue.

Another earlier survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe it doesn't make sense to debate new immigration laws until we can first control our borders and enforce existing laws. That same survey found that 40% of Americans favor "forcibly" requiring all 11 million illegal immigrants to leave the United States.

While the short-term benefit may accrue to those who favor a tougher enforcement policy, the long-term implications of the issue are less clear. At the moment, neither political party enjoys unity within its own ranks on the issue. Politicians from both sides are struggling with the nuances of the issue.

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Rasmussen Reports is an electronic publishing firm specializing in the collection, publication, and distribution of public opinion polling information.

The Rasmussen Reports Election Edge™ Premium Service offers the most comprehensive public opinion coverage available anywhere.

Scott Rasmussen, president of Rasmussen Reports, has been an independent pollster for more than a decade.

Survey of 1,000 Adults
April 8-9, 2006

Trust on Immigration

April 8-9

Republicans

37%

Democrats

31%

RasmussenReports.com

Trust on Immigration

March 28-29

Republicans

38%

Democrats

37%

RasmussenReports.com

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