摘要：Data were analyzed from an October 2007 deliberative poll
event in Omaha, Nebraska. The focus of pre-event survey ques-
tions was on the usefulness of media sources on the coverage
of the global immigration issue. The goal of the project was to
promote civic engagement of citizens on an important public
issue. The focus of post-event survey questions was on attention
paid to media. Additionally, a post-event focus group explored
public opinion on credibility of various news sources. While the
deliberative poll produced some evidence of short-term effects in
terms of citizens learning about the immigration issue, attitudes
about media credibility appeared to be well established before the
event and based on personal experiences. These beliefs may also
have influenced the course of dialogue within the deliberative
poll event. The method proved valuable for exploring in-depth
views about controversial issues.
Immigration has been a contentious issue across the United
States. As undocumented workers cross the U.S./Mexico border
and fill job openings, some Americans have criticized federal
government policies and their impact. Analysts point out that
half of immigrant workers come to the U.S. from Mexico but
the public, confused by a lack of issue education and superficial
media coverage, may not be able to distinguish between legal and
illegal workers:
People used to read newspapers and listen to the news regu-
larly; today, headlines and the ten-second sound bite may form
the depth of news knowledge…The Internet and blogosphere
have contributed to negative attitudes about immigration, as they
quickly and widely disseminate myths and misconceptions, as
well as vitriolic commentary (Strategic Discussions for Nebraska
2008: 4).
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