Half of Americans Believe ICE Reduces Safety in Cities, CNN Poll Shows
Recently, a CNN poll conducted by SSRS highlighted significant concerns among Americans regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and safety in cities. The poll was sparked by the fatal shooting of Minneapolis resident Renee Good by an ICE officer.
Public Perception of ICE Activities
The survey revealed that nearly half of Americans believe that ICE operations contribute to violence rather than curbing it. Specifically, 51% assert that enforcement actions by ICE make cities less safe, while only 31% disagree. The remaining 18% believe ICE has little impact on safety.
Reactions to the Shooting Incident
When asked about the shooting of Renee Good, only 26% of respondents viewed it as an appropriate use of force. In stark contrast, 56% labeled it as inappropriate. Furthermore, 51% believe the incident is indicative of larger systemic issues within ICE.
- Key Statistics:
- 51% of Americans view ICE as a threat to safety.
- 56% deem the shooting as inappropriate.
- 26% consider the shooting an appropriate response.
Political Divisions
Responses to the shooting and ICE’s overall impact differ sharply along party lines. Over 80% of Democrats and leaning independents see the shooting as unjustified and reflective of broader issues. Conversely, 67% of Republicans consider ICE actions as beneficial for safety, with a majority defending the officer’s conduct in this incident.
Trust in Government and Investigations
Trust levels in the federal government to conduct fair investigations into such incidents are low. Only 37% of participants expressed confidence that a thorough examination would take place regarding Good’s shooting.
Trump’s Immigration Policies and Public Opinion
The poll also revealed a shift in public sentiment regarding former President Trump’s immigration policies. Presently, 52% of Americans believe his deportation strategies have exceeded acceptable limits, reflecting growing discontent as his 2024 campaign emphasizes strict immigration enforcement.
- Trend in Approval Ratings:
- Trump’s immigration approval fell from 51% in March to 42% by July 2025.
This polling indicates a broader narrative around immigration enforcement in the U.S. While some maintain support for stringent policies, many Americans are concerned about safety implications and the use of force by ICE. This division reflects ongoing debates about appropriate measures for ensuring security in cities.
