Poll Reveals 60% of Americans Criticize ICE's Effectiveness

Recent polling data shows that nearly 60% of respondents express dissatisfaction with the performance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with a notable portion advocating for cuts to the agency's budget. This survey, conducted by a prominent news network, highlights a growing trend of disapproval that has reached unprecedented levels since 2018.

Only 42% of those surveyed indicated approval of ICE's operations, marking a stark contrast to previous years. The poll was carried out from February 28 to March 2, coinciding with significant political shifts, including the dismissal of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem by President Trump.

Daron Shaw, a Republican pollster, provided insight into the findings, stating, “This isn’t a complicated story. ICE’s tactics in Minneapolis, along with negative news coverage, have caused a sharp drop in approval, especially among independents and members of the out-party.”

Despite the network's generally supportive stance towards the Trump administration, the results reflect a growing discontent among viewers. During his presidency, Trump implemented stringent measures against illegal immigration, which have now come under scrutiny.

High-profile incidents involving ICE agents, such as the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, have ignited widespread protests against immigration enforcement practices. The survey results reveal a clear partisan divide: 94% of self-identified MAGA supporters approve of ICE, while approval among “very conservative” voters stands at 87% and 83% among other Republicans.

Conversely, disapproval among Democratic voters has surged by 8 points since September 2025, with younger voters under 30 showing a 17-point increase in disapproval. Male respondents also reported an 11-point rise in negative sentiment towards ICE.

Almost half of those surveyed—46%—support reducing ICE's funding. Only 20% believe funding should be increased, while 18% prefer maintaining current levels. Additionally, 16% advocate for new restrictions on the agency without altering its budget.

Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” allocated a historic $165 billion to the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE. However, following Noem's recent reassignment, Trump praised her tenure despite the agency's declining approval ratings.

The poll also revealed that 49% of participants feel Trump's immigration policies are detrimental to the economy, while only 33% believe they have had a positive impact. Opinions on whether Trump has enhanced national safety through his immigration policies are split: 42% affirm he has made the U.S. safer, while 37% disagree.

General assessments of Trump's presidency show that 57% of respondents view his performance unfavorably, with only 43% approving of his leadership. Border security remains the sole issue where Trump's approval slightly surpasses disapproval at 52% to 48%. However, he faces greater disapproval on immigration, economic management, healthcare, taxes, tariffs, and living costs.

Despite these challenges, Trump has recently boasted about his poll numbers on social media, claiming they reflect public support for a strong national stance and robust economy.