Is Immigration a Racial issue? Anglos' Attitudes on Immigration Policies in a Border County

Aversion to Latinos, as indicated by an adaptation of the Bogardus social distance scale, was related to more restrictionist attitudes about legal and Mexican immigration. Associations increased when respondents were primed to consider Mexican immigration, although aversion to Latinos was not related to attitudes about amnesty for undocumented persons. Contrary to some previous findings proximity to Latino populations increased opposition to legal immigration, Mexican immigration, and amnesty.

Reported minority contact had minimal impact that failed to meet traditional levels of significance. Conclusions. Attitudes about immigration may be partially motivated by racial resentments, more so than other considerations.

Further research should identify racial factors that influence Anglos’ attitudes on policy positions that extend beyond the Anglo/African division.