Let me provide you with a statement:
Two thirds of Americans want immigration increased or held at the same level.
Sounds like we’re really pro-immigration, right? How about this:
68% of Americans want immigration decreased or held at the same level.
Time to build the wall, huh?
Well, which one is it? How about both.
Back in February, Gallup released a poll on immigration. One of the questions asked if immigration should be kept at its current level, increased, or decreased. The results were:
- Current Level: 37%
- Decreased: 31%
- Increased: 30%
Using those numbers, you can make both of the statements listed above. Both are factually correct. And both are misleading. It’s a cheap trick, combining the results you like with neutral results, and presenting them as “the majority speaks”. I have noticed the occasional columnist or letter-writer using these constructs. Just something to keep an eye out for.
