Poll: 71%, Including Majority of Dems, Say No Government Benefits for Illegal Newcomers

An overwhelming majority of likely voters, including a majority of Democrats, believe illegal immigrants from Central America should not be eligible for taxpayer-funded government benefits, according to a new poll.

A Rasmussen Reports poll found that 71% "say these illegal newcomers should not be eligible for government services and benefits." Only 16% think "they are entitled to government aid" while 13% are undecided. Even a majority of Democrats (51%) "do not think illegal immigrants should be eligible for government services and benefits" in addition to "91% of Republicans and 75% of unaffiliated voters."

A strong majority (68%) also "say the new illegal immigrants should not have the same legal rights and protections that U.S. citizens have," and that includes a plurality--and a near-majority--of Democrats (49%). The poll found that "89% of GOP voters and 70% of unaffiliateds think illegals should not have the same legal rights and protections that U.S. citizens have."

More