America Turns On Trump’s ICE
A new YouGov poll is drawing attention for claiming that a slight majority of Americans disapprove of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations under President Trump. But when you dig into the details, the picture becomes far more political—and far more connected to where these enforcement actions are taking place.
According to the survey, 53% of respondents said they somewhat or strongly disapprove of ICE, while 39% voiced support for the agency’s efforts. These numbers come at the same time President Trump has intensified immigration enforcement across several Democrat-run cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.—areas known for sanctuary policies and resistance to federal immigration law.
Trump Administration Ramps Up Enforcement in Liberal Strongholds
ICE has been targeting individuals suspected of being in the country illegally, conducting operations in communities where local leaders openly refuse to cooperate with federal authorities. Supporters argue that the administration is doing exactly what millions of Americans have demanded for years: restore law and order, secure the border, and protect American families.
Critics say ICE is overreaching, but the poll’s findings reflect the impact of heavy media messaging in cities where negative coverage of ICE is constant. Many conservatives believe these perceptions say more about local politics than about ICE’s mission.
Key Findings from the YouGov Survey
- 55% of respondents believe ICE may arrest U.S. citizens or legal residents—a claim frequently repeated in left-leaning media.
- 61% say ICE sometimes detains individuals who haven’t committed immigration or customs violations.
- 52% describe ICE’s tactics as “too forceful,” while 26% say enforcement is “about right” and 11% think ICE should be even tougher.
- Americans are evenly divided on whether they fear someone they know could be mistreated by ICE: 46% concerned, 47% not concerned.
The survey was conducted online from Oct. 8–12 with 1,065 U.S. adults and has a four-point margin of error.
What Conservatives Are Noticing
Many Trump supporters point out that the areas generating the most negative sentiment toward ICE are the same areas where:
- Local officials refuse to help federal agents.
- Sanctuary policies block cooperation.
- Illegal immigration has surged and overwhelmed communities.
- Media outlets routinely portray law enforcement as the “villain.”
Despite the poll’s headline, millions of Americans still strongly support border security, tough immigration enforcement, and President Trump’s commitment to restoring public safety—especially in the communities hit hardest by failed liberal policies.
