New poll shows how Americans feel about immigration

It’s Columbus Day. On the day that remembers Christopher Columbus as the first immigrant to the new world ABC explores how Americans really feel about immigration.

The signs are backed up with statistics.

Nearly 80 percent of those surveyed say they often or sometimes come into contact with people who mainly speak Spanish. It’s true it small town Iowa and at one Alaskan furrier.

A third of those people are bothered by their interactions with Spanish speakers — like the Philadelphia restaurant owner who posted an English-only sign.

ABC News polling director Gary Langer said, “People who are disturbed by Spanish being spoken also are more likely to hold negative views on immigration more generally.”

Americans are conflicted about immigration

Sixty-seven percent of those polled agreed. Fifty-four percent feel illegal immigrants hurt more than help the country. At the same time 58 percent support providing a path to citizenship for those undocumented workers already here.

The crackdown on illegal immigrants is being felt by farmers. Fewer undocumented workers are showing for the harvest and farmers now are worried their crops will die on the vine:

The government is now working to rewrite federal regulations so farmers can hire more legal guest workers.

Just 10 percent of Americans concede having racist feelings toward Hispanics. That’s far fewer than those who in previous polls have admitted to being prejudiced against Muslims.