A new CBS News/YouGov poll indicates a decrease in public approval for the Trump administration’s deportation program, which now registers an approval rating of 46%—its lowest in the current survey series. Data collected between January 14-16, 2026, reflects growing public unease over the scope of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, contributing to the decline. A clear partisan divide is evident, with strong Republican support contrasting with debate among Democrats and independents.
Key Findings
- The CBS News/YouGov poll places the Trump administration’s deportation program approval at 46%.
- Public unease regarding the tactics employed in ICE operations is contributing to the decline in approval.
- Republican support for the program remains strong, while disagreement is expressed toward the actions of protesters.
- An agent-involved shooting incident in Minneapolis has intensified the public debate.
Analysis of Support for Enforcement Operations
The latest CBS News/YouGov poll presents a key finding for the Trump administration’s deportation program, registering an approval rating of 46%—its lowest in the current survey series. The data, collected between January 14-16, 2026, reflects growing public unease over the scope of ICE operations, with a portion of Americans expressing the belief that these actions extend beyond targeting dangerous criminals. This decrease is notable given the administration’s strong emphasis on immigration enforcement.
A clear partisan divide is evident. Republicans largely support the enforcement efforts and express disagreement with the actions of protesters. Democrats and independents, conversely, view the program as a subject of debate regarding severity and a factor in community safety concerns. The poll highlights a significant event that has contributed to this public debate: the agent-involved shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis, which has led to public discussions regarding the scope of ICE’s authority.
More Americans now describe ICE's operations as too tough when stopping & detaining people.
There are shifting perceptions of who is being targeted by the program. Americans are increasingly likely to say the admin isn’t prioritizing dangerous criminals.https://t.co/gYNPHyLajA pic.twitter.com/K04im2cP0V
— CBS News Poll (@CBSNewsPoll) January 18, 2026
Republican Support and Implementation Concerns
Despite the declining overall approval rating, Republican support for the Trump administration’s deportation program remains strong. Many within the GOP view the protests against ICE as an inappropriate level of opposition, believing the program is essential for national security and efforts to secure the nation’s borders. This support reflects a broader commitment to the administration’s immigration policies.
Concurrently, public concern continues to grow over the methods employed by ICE, with many Americans fearing that these actions make communities less safe. The dissatisfaction with how the program is executed, rather than the goals of immigration enforcement themselves, suggests potential pressure on the administration to review its strategies as it approaches the midterm elections, where immigration remains a key issue.
Long-Term Implications for Policy
In the short term, the decrease in support for the deportation program could impact the administration’s immigration stance, despite strong backing from its base. The administration may face increasing calls to reassess its approach, particularly in light of the Minneapolis incident. Furthermore, with attention on economic issues like inflation, the broader approval of the presidency may depend on balancing enforcement strategies with economic policies.
Ultimately, maintaining the administration’s immigration agenda will depend on addressing implementation issues while appealing to both the Republican base and the broader electorate. The poll indicates that while the policy goals resonate, the tactics employed are less palatable, signaling a need for strategic adjustments to sustain support.
Watch the report: CBS News poll finds more Americans say ICE being too tough
Sources:
- CBS News poll finds more Americans say ICE being too tough; Republicans feel protesters have gone too far.
- Most Americans say ICE has been too tough: Poll.
- Voters oppose ICE amid shootings in Minneapolis – The Washington Post
