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Poll Shows Growing Disapproval of ICE Amid Immigration Policy Debate
An increasing number of American voters have expressed disapproval of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), according to a new Fox News poll that shows the agency facing its highest disapproval rating since polling began on the issue.
The survey, conducted just before President Trump’s announcement nominating Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to replace Kristi Noem as Department of Homeland Security Secretary, reveals that nearly 60% of voters now disapprove of ICE’s performance, while only about 40% approve.
This marks a significant shift in public opinion, with disapproval rising 7 percentage points since last fall and 17 points since the question was first asked in 2018. The poll also indicates that nearly twice as many voters strongly disapprove of ICE as strongly approve.
“This isn’t a complicated story,” said Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducts the Fox News Poll alongside Democratic counterpart Chris Anderson. “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.”
The sharpest increases in disapproval came from voters under 30 (up 17 points since September), independents (up 13 points), men (up 11 points) and Democrats (up 8 points). However, ICE still maintains strong support among certain demographics, with 94% of MAGA supporters, 87% of very conservative voters, and 83% of Republicans expressing approval.
On the question of funding, Americans appear divided. Nearly half (46%) support reducing ICE’s funding, while the remainder want to increase funding (20%), maintain current levels (18%), or keep current funding with new restrictions (16%). The partisan divide is stark, with 77% of Democrats and 59% of independents favoring defunding ICE, while Republicans prefer to maintain (37%) or increase (43%) current funding levels.
The poll also explored broader views on the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Voters are slightly more likely to feel these policies have made the U.S. safer (42%) than less safe (37%), an improvement from last June when opinion was evenly split. However, when considering economic impact, more voters believe the administration’s immigration policies are hurting the economy (49%) rather than helping it (33%).
Hispanic voters, a demographic particularly affected by immigration policies, showed strong support (74%) for allowing undocumented immigrants with jobs to stay and apply for legal status. A majority (56%) oppose deportations, and 58% disapprove of ICE.
Despite the growing disapproval of ICE, border security and immigration remain President Trump’s strongest policy areas. The poll shows border security as his only net positive job rating, with 52% approving and 48% disapproving. His handling of immigration, while still underwater at 47% approval to 53% disapproval, has slightly improved since January.
The president’s ratings on other issues remain negative, including jobs (43% approve, 56% disapprove), taxes (40-59%), foreign policy (40-60%), economy (38-61%), healthcare (38-61%), tariffs (36-63%), and cost of living (32-67%).
The nuanced views on immigration policy reflect the complexity of the issue for American voters. While two-thirds (67%) favor allowing undocumented immigrants with jobs to stay and apply for legal status, a majority (59%) also support deporting those who are in the country illegally. Interestingly, among voters who favor deportation, 53% would still support allowing employed undocumented immigrants to stay and apply for legal status.
The Fox News survey was conducted from February 28 to March 2, 2026, under the direction of Beacon Research and Shaw & Company Research, with a sample of 1,004 registered voters and a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.
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8 Comments
This poll reflects the complex and divisive nature of the immigration issue in the US. While ICE plays a key role in enforcement, their methods have clearly raised concerns among many voters. It will be important to see how this sentiment translates into policy changes.
The rising disapproval of ICE reflects the polarized nature of the immigration issue. While enforcement is necessary, the public seems to be calling for a more balanced and humane approach. This could influence the next administration’s priorities on this contentious topic.
The growing disapproval of ICE is a notable development in the immigration policy landscape. It highlights the need for a more measured and thoughtful approach that addresses both security concerns and humanitarian considerations. Curious to see how this plays out in the coming years.
The growing disapproval of ICE suggests Americans are increasingly uncomfortable with the agency’s tactics. This could put pressure on policymakers to reevaluate immigration enforcement practices and find a more measured approach that addresses both security and humanitarian concerns.
The sharp drop in ICE approval, especially among independents, shows how contentious this issue has become. It highlights the need for a balanced and humane approach to immigration that addresses public concerns. Curious to see how this will shape the ongoing policy discussions.
The increasing disapproval of ICE is a significant shift in public opinion. It suggests that voters want immigration policies that are more nuanced and cognizant of civil liberties concerns. This could shape the policy landscape and the political debates around this issue.
This poll result is not surprising given the intense debates around immigration in recent years. ICE has become a lightning rod, and their actions have clearly alienated a significant portion of the electorate. It will be interesting to see how this factors into future policy decisions.
Interesting to see the growing disapproval of ICE. Seems like their tactics and negative media coverage have taken a toll on public perception. I wonder how this will impact immigration policy debates going forward.