Pro- and Anti-ICE Protests Erupt in Treasure Valley

Demonstrations on both sides of immigration debate take place in Boise and Caldwell

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Impassioned protests both supporting and opposing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took place in the Treasure Valley region of Idaho, with a pro-ICE rally in Boise and an anti-ICE demonstration in Caldwell. The dueling events highlighted the divisive and emotional nature of the immigration debate.

Why it matters

The protests reflect the deep ideological divisions in the country over immigration policy and the role of federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE. The Treasure Valley, home to a growing and diverse population, has become a flashpoint for these debates, mirroring broader national tensions.

The details

The pro-ICE rally in Boise drew several hundred supporters who voiced their backing for the agency's efforts to detain and deport undocumented immigrants. Meanwhile, the anti-ICE protest in Caldwell, about 30 miles away, saw hundreds of demonstrators calling for the abolition of the agency and a more humane approach to immigration enforcement.

  • The pro-ICE rally in Boise took place on February 1, 2026.
  • The anti-ICE protest in Caldwell also occurred on February 1, 2026.

The players

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must support the brave men and women of ICE who are working to keep our communities safe.”

— Sarah Johnson, Pro-ICE Protester

“ICE is a rogue agency that terrorizes immigrant families. We demand its abolition and a new approach to immigration.”

— Juan Hernandez, Anti-ICE Protester

The takeaway

The dueling protests in the Treasure Valley highlight the deep divisions in the country over immigration policy and the role of federal agencies like ICE. As the debate continues, local communities will likely remain flashpoints for these emotional and contentious discussions.