Trump sees over 50% voter approval on border security despite anti-ICE protests: Survey

WASHINGTON, DC: A recent poll found that more than 50 percent of participants approved of Donald Trump’s work on border security, but a majority voted against his handling of immigration.

Most voters also selected the “too aggressive” option when asked about the methods used by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE).

Poll finds mixed views on Trump ICE enforcement pledge

The survey, conducted from January 23 to January 26 by Fox News, found that 29 percent of participants selected “almost always” when asked whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s work reflects Donald Trump’s pledge to focus on illegal immigrants with criminal records.

Another 25 percent responded “most of the time,” 19 percent said “sometimes,” and 27 percent answered “not very often.”

According to the results, 45 percent of Republicans said ICE is “almost always” keeping the pledge, compared with only 17 percent of Democrats and 15 percent of independents who agreed with the same.

Majority say ICE tactics too aggressive, poll finds

However, most voters disagreed with ICE’s tactics. 59 percent described the federal agency’s approach as “too aggressive,” marking a 10-point increase since July last year.

These voters also elaborated on their views, with 44 percent blaming ICE for “using too much force,” while 23 percent said the agency is “targeting the wrong people.” Another 29 percent selected both options.

Participants were also asked about Donald Trump’s overall job performance. 44 percent approved, while 56 percent disapproved. On immigration policy, 45 percent agreed with his approach, compared with 55 percent who disagreed. On border security, 52 percent approved, while 47 percent disapproved.

Poll highlights divide between border security and immigration views

Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducts the Fox News Poll with Democratic counterpart Chris Anderson, explained, “This poll demonstrates something we’ve noted for a long time, border security and immigration are often distinct issues.”

“Republicans in general, and the president in particular, are seen as effective when it comes to border security. But public sentiment is more complicated when it comes to handling immigrants in the US illegally,” they added.

The survey followed an ICE crackdown across the country, with Minnesota drawing heightened attention due to deadly anti-ICE protests that claimed the lives of two US citizens.

Renee Good was fatally shot on January 7 by a federal agent named Jonathan Ross, while Alex Pretti lost his life on January 24 after being shot by an unnamed Border Patrol agent who alleged that Pretti interfered with their work.

Both deaths have fueled tensions in the state, with residents demanding justice and accountability from the government. Trump has since sent border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota to oversee further ICE operations after withdrawing Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino from the state.