Immigration in Texas is a contentious issue, and a recent survey sheds light on the divided opinions among residents.
The University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs and Texas Southern University’s Barbara Jordan—Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs conducted a survey that unveiled significant divides regarding immigration policies in Texas.
Republicans and Democrats in Texas hold contrasting views on immigration. Republicans tend to support stricter immigration controls, while Democrats lean towards more lenient policies. This disparity is reflected in the approval ratings for Texas Governor Greg Abbott and President Joe Biden.
According to the survey, 57% of Texans approve of Abbott’s approach to border security, while only 36% approve of Biden’s strategy. Additionally, 67% of respondents disapprove of Biden’s immigration policies compared to 43% who disapprove of Abbott’s.
“The ongoing policy debates on immigration in Texas are heavily influenced by various factors such as the state’s border with Mexico and its cultural exchange with the country,” stated Agustin Vallejo, a research associate professor at Hobby School.
The divide becomes more pronounced based on political affiliation. A majority of Republicans strongly approve of Abbott’s policies, while Democrats show strong disapproval. Independents also favor Abbott over Biden.
Generational differences are also evident, with older generations supporting stricter policies akin to Abbott, while younger generations prefer inclusive policies similar to Biden.
Racial and ethnic backgrounds play a role in shaping opinions, with varying levels of support for Abbott and Biden based on respondents’ demographics.
Across different regions in Texas, the survey found varying levels of support for Abbott’s policies, with Dallas-Fort Worth showing the highest approval for his border approach.
In terms of specific border policies, a majority of Texans support increased spending on border security and making illegal immigration a state crime.
Overall, the survey highlights the diverse opinions on immigration in Texas and the complex factors that influence residents’ views on this critical issue.