How Trump Popularized the ‘Abolish ICE’ Movement
During Donald Trump’s presidency, the public’s perception of immigration policy underwent significant changes. Initially, immigration was a cornerstone of Trump’s political strength, with many Americans supporting stricter deportation measures. However, the growing support for the “Abolish ICE” movement highlights a notable shift in sentiment.
Trump’s Immigration Campaign and Public Opinion
When Trump took office in early 2025, immigration issues gained traction among the electorate. A CBS News/YouGov poll from November 2024 revealed that 57% of Americans favored a national program targeting unauthorized immigrants for deportation. Moreover, 73% of respondents believed the next president should prioritize deportations.
Despite strong initial support, approval ratings for Trump’s immigration policies declined sharply. Border crossings plummeted, yet the administration’s harsh enforcement strategies turned public favor against him. By early 2026, Trump’s approval rating concerning immigration issues dropped to a concerning 12 points underwater.
The Rise of the ‘Abolish ICE’ Movement
- The “Abolish ICE” movement transformed from an unpopular stance to one now supported by 46% of voters, including 20% of Republicans.
- This shift is indicative of growing discontent with ICE’s aggressive tactics, particularly after multiple high-profile incidents.
Incidents Spark Backlash
Public reaction intensified following a series of controversial actions by ICE and Border Patrol. In January 2026, an ICE agent shot a mother in Minneapolis, prompting the Trump administration to defend the shooter. Furthermore, Border Patrol agents faced backlash after they killed a protester, leading to widespread criticism, even from Republican lawmakers.
Faced with declining support, Trump’s administration began to adapt its approach. It made minor adjustments, such as demoting Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and engaging with state officials. However, many viewed these changes as insufficient amid calls for genuine reform.
The Political Landscape Post-Trump
Despite the challenges, immigration remains a critical issue for the Republican Party. Polls indicate that GOP candidates still hold a substantial advantage over Democrats regarding immigration policies. After the controversies surrounding ICE, public disapproval of Trump’s administration on immigration was at 60%, yet the Republicans maintained an 11-point lead over Democrats on handling the issue.
In hindsight, Trump had the opportunity to pursue a more moderate immigration agenda. Instead, he opted for the hardline approach favored by far-right factions, which ultimately alienated moderate voters.
Conclusion
The evolution of public sentiment towards the “Abolish ICE” movement illustrates a significant shift in American attitudes towards immigration enforcement. This ongoing discourse reflects broader societal concerns about the treatment of immigrants and the role of agencies like ICE in enforcing immigration laws. As the political climate continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these issues will shape future electoral outcomes.
