Shifting Views on Immigration and Economy in Texas: Insights from the Lyceum Poll
A recent poll conducted by the Texas Lyceum indicates that attitudes toward immigration among Texans have changed markedly since 2017. As immigration emerges as a pressing concern, public sentiment reflects a growing desire for stricter enforcement policies and deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Key Findings from the Poll
In this year’s survey, which engaged 1,200 adults in Texas, immigration emerged as the foremost issue, closely followed by economic concerns like rising prices and border security. Approximately 69% of the respondents were registered voters.
Economic Concerns Shape Immigration Views
Frank Ward, chair of the current Lyceum poll, emphasized that Texans’ focus on immigration is closely tied to economic worries. He stated, “Texans care deeply about how the economy is affecting their families and their futures.” Ward underscored that perceptions regarding immigration and border security are often viewed through the lens of economic impact.
Changing Opinions on Immigration’s Effects
Respondents were evenly divided regarding whether immigration benefits or harms the United States, with each position attracting 32% of the responses. Only 30% perceived it as a mix of both. This marks a sharp decline from 2017, when a notable 62% believed immigration was more beneficial than harmful.
Increased Support for Deportation
Moreover, the poll indicates a substantial increase in support for deportation policies. This year, about 68% of respondents anticipated that President Trump would enforce deportations, a notable rise from 50% in 2017. Furthermore, 44% expressed approval for such actions, increasing from 31% four years prior.
Mixed Feelings About Undocumented Immigrants
While 29% of Texans expressed strong concern regarding illegal immigration, a significant 63% acknowledged the role of undocumented immigrants in filling jobs that American citizens tend to avoid.
Shift in Broader Perspectives
Joshua Blank, research director for the Texas Lyceum, noted a shift in narratives surrounding immigration in America. He remarked, “Ten years ago, someone could say America is a nation of immigrants, and that wouldn’t be a controversial statement. I think that narrative has shifted towards a more critical view of undocumented immigration.”
Other Policy Perspectives
Interestingly, not all perspectives shifted conservatively. For instance, support for religious displays in government offices has significantly declined from 60% in 2007 to 41% today. Similarly, endorsement for the death penalty fell from 49% to 37% over the same period.
Current Economic Sentiments
The poll also surveyed personal financial well-being, revealing that 41% of respondents felt worse off compared to a year ago, with only 23% reporting an improvement in their financial situation.
Approval Ratings of State Leaders
On the political front, 55% of participants approved of Governor Greg Abbott’s performance, an increase from 49% previously. Approval for Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton was recorded at 42%, while 46% of Texans deemed the state legislature’s performance acceptable.
Poll Validity and Methodology
The Texas Lyceum poll was conducted from March 28 to April 4, via telephone and online methods, maintaining a margin of error of 3 percentage points.
Desire for Respectful Discourse
Despite varied opinions on immigration and other issues, a consensus emerged with 69% of respondents agreeing that respectful political discourse is possible, and 68% preferring that political leaders pursue compromise over rigid stances.
Disclosure: The Texas Lyceum has financially supported The Texas Tribune, a nonpartisan news organization. Their financial influence does not extend to editorial decisions.