As President Obama considers postponing the deportation of millions of immigrants, public opinion has shifted -- now, the number of Americans who want tighter border security is on the rise.
Survey results released by the Pew Research Center show that more Americans favor stricter enforcement of immigration laws and heightened border protection.
Among 1,501 adults, 33 percent say the priority should be on improving border security and enforcing immigration laws. Twenty-three percent prioritize creating a way for people in the United States illegally to obtain citizenship, and 41 percent say enforcement and a path to citizenship should be prioritized equally.
This is a shift from the beginning of President Obama's second term--the share prioritizing tougher border security and law enforcement has risen eight points since 2013.
Another new estimate released Tuesday shows the number of unauthorized immigrants living in the United States has leveled off since the end of the recession, and shows no sign of rising. This slowing of new arrivals means those who stay in the United States are more likely to become long-term residents.
Obama has said he would prefer Congress manage an immigration policy overhaul but said in August he will take executive action if Congress does not do so.