Story perspectives

2023 Census Test Includes Citizenship Question, Sparks Controversy

2/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Census Bureau's 2030 census field test will include a citizenship question, raising concerns about participation among immigrant communities.
This decision aligns with ongoing Republican efforts to exclude non-citizens from census counts, potentially affecting congressional representation and federal funding.
Critics argue that this approach may deter historically undercounted populations from participating.
The test will not include new racial and ethnic categories approved by the Biden administration.
Results will inform preparations for the 2030 census, with a report due to Congress in 2027.

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Story summary

The U.S. Census Bureau's 2030 census field test will include a citizenship question, raising concerns about participation among immigrant communities.
This decision aligns with ongoing Republican efforts to exclude non-citizens from census counts, potentially affecting congressional representation and federal funding.
Critics argue that this approach may deter historically undercounted populations from participating.
The test will not include new racial and ethnic categories approved by the Biden administration.
Results will inform preparations for the 2030 census, with a report due to Congress in 2027.