Immigration is a starkly populist issue, one clearly pitting elite opinion against that of the people. Immigration policy makes a mockery of our claims to democratic status. During the post-1965 period, no more than 13% of Americans have ever favored an increase in immigration, yet our politicians have actively encouraged such an influx.

If misery loves company, I suppose we can at least take heart in this — Britain’s elites are equally contemptuous of their citizenry. Polls continually show that Britons are fed up with the reigning immigration regime, yet no substantive reform looks to be in the offing. The latest symptom of discontent is this FT/Harris poll that finds 3/4 of Britain want jobless immigrants deported.

Observers worry this unrest will benefit the far-Right British National Party. The only way that can be true is if the mainstream parties continue to ignore the will of the people. It is only in such environments that fringe parties can thrive.

Crossposted from: Immigration Policy Daily.