Voters overwhelmingly agree that we can do better when it comes to immigration.
The Big Picture
Immigration remains one of the most pressing issues for voters in 2024. The recent surge of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border has pushed it to the forefront of national discussions. As part of our “We Can Do Better” series, the Independent Center found that 86% of voters believe the U.S. immigration system needs improvement. Only 11% say it is working.
Zooming In
The Last Major Immigration Reform
The last significant update to U.S. immigration laws was the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. This law:
- Penalized employers who hired undocumented migrants.
- Established H-2A and H-2B guest worker programs.
- Provided legal status for undocumented migrants who arrived before 1982.
Since then, Congress has failed to pass meaningful immigration reform despite multiple bipartisan efforts.
Failed Attempts at Reform
There have been multiple attempts to modernize immigration laws:
- In 2007, a bipartisan “Gang of 12” introduced the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, which included a merit-based visa system, a new guest worker program, and increased border security. It failed to advance in the Senate.
- In 2013, the Senate passed the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, which would have reduced the budget deficit by nearly $200 billion over ten years. The House refused to consider it.
- Efforts in 2018 to reform immigration laws failed in both the House and Senate.
The Consequences of Inaction
Without reform, immigration remains a highly politicized issue rather than a policy discussion. While Washington is deadlocked, real consequences play out:
- Record numbers of migrants risk their lives at the border, with nearly 700 deaths recorded in 2022.
- The claim that migrants bring crime is not supported by data. Studies show migrants are less likely to commit crimes than native-born Americans.
America Needs Immigration
The U.S. is facing a population decline that could threaten future economic growth:
- The U.S. population grew by just 0.1% in 2020, the slowest rate in history.
- By 2040, deaths are projected to outnumber births among native-born Americans.
- Without immigration, the U.S. population could begin shrinking within decades.
Independent Lens
Independent voters recognize that immigration is both a policy and an economic issue. The U.S. needs a modernized immigration system that balances border security with legal pathways for workers, students, and refugees.
Without action, the country risks continued economic slowdowns and workforce shortages. Independent voters are calling for leadership that prioritizes pragmatic solutions over political infighting.
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