A Nation Divided: ICE Approval Ratings Spark Fierce Debate
A recent Marquette Law School poll reveals a stark divide in public opinion regarding the performance of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While 40% of Americans approve of ICE's handling of its duties, a significant 60% express disapproval. This survey, conducted January 21-28, interviewed 1,003 adults nationwide, with a margin of error of +/-3.4 percentage points. Interestingly, the poll was largely completed before the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on January 24th, though it followed the shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis, events that have undoubtedly fueled ongoing debates about ICE's tactics.
But here's where it gets controversial: Despite the majority disapproval, 56% of respondents still favor deporting individuals living in the U.S. illegally. This seemingly contradictory stance highlights the complexity of public sentiment. As Amaad Rivera-Wagner, a Wisconsin Democrat, points out, opposition to ICE's methods transcends party lines, encompassing both red and blue states and local officials.
And this is the part most people miss: While general support for deportations remains steady, the poll reveals a nuanced perspective. When asked about deporting long-term residents with jobs and no criminal record, support drops significantly to 44%, with 56% opposed. This suggests a distinction between public attitudes towards undocumented immigrants in general and those who have established roots and contributed to their communities.
The poll also sheds light on perceptions of ICE's targets. 52% believe the U.S. primarily deports immigrants without criminal records, while 47% believe most deportees have criminal histories. This disparity in perception is even more pronounced along party lines, with 83% of Republicans believing most deportees have criminal records, compared to 57% of independents and 86% of Democrats who believe the opposite.
Is ICE targeting the right people? Are its methods justified? These are questions that continue to spark heated debate.
Following the poll's release, and amidst the announcement of a drawdown of federal troops in Minneapolis, some Republican lawmakers from Wisconsin acknowledged the need for potential changes in ICE enforcement. Representative Glenn Grothman suggests additional training could be beneficial, while emphasizing the importance of addressing illegal immigration. Representative Tony Wied highlights the implementation of body cameras as a step towards improving accountability.
The poll also reveals a gradual decline in President Trump's overall approval rating, currently at 42%, and a slight improvement in public perception of the economy since November. However, approval of Trump's handling of immigration remains relatively stable at 44%, with 56% disapproving.
This Marquette Law School poll paints a complex picture of public opinion on immigration enforcement. While a majority disapprove of ICE's methods, support for deportations persists, albeit with important nuances. The debate surrounding ICE's role and tactics is far from over, leaving room for continued discussion, reform, and potentially, a reevaluation of our approach to immigration policy.
What are your thoughts on ICE's performance? Do you believe its methods are justified? Share your opinions in the comments below.
For the full survey results, visit: https://today.marquette.edu/2026/02/new-marquette-law-school-national-survey-finds-60-disapprove-of-the-work-of-ice-with-democrats-and-independents-opposed-to-ice-and-republicans-in-favor/
