Poll: 58% Say Trump Admin Has Gone Too Far on Immigrant Deportations

Survey finds majority disapprove of administration's crackdown on undocumented immigrants

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:41pm

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A new joint poll from The Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos found that 58% of respondents believe the Trump administration has gone too far in its efforts to deport undocumented immigrants. The survey also found that 62% of respondents oppose the use of force by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during these operations, following the killings of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis in January.

Why it matters

The poll results reflect growing public concern over the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement policies, which have drawn criticism from Democrats and some independents. The findings could put pressure on the administration to reevaluate its approach to immigration and deportations.

The details

The poll found that 95% of Democrats and 63% of independent voters believe the Trump administration has gone too far on deportations, compared to just 16% of Republicans. Additionally, 62% of respondents said they oppose the use of force by ICE agents, following the high-profile killings of two U.S. citizens during immigration operations in Minneapolis.

  • The poll was conducted between February 12-17, 2026.
  • The killings of the two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis occurred in late January 2026.

The players

Trump administration

The current presidential administration led by President Donald Trump, which has pursued aggressive policies to crack down on illegal immigration and increase deportations of undocumented immigrants.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, including the deportation of undocumented immigrants.

Renee Good

A 37-year-old U.S. citizen who was killed by an ICE agent during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis in January 2026.

Alex Pretti

A U.S. citizen who was killed by a Customs and Border Protection agent during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis in January 2026.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This poll highlights the growing public backlash against the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement policies, which have drawn criticism from Democrats, independents, and even some Republicans. The killings of two U.S. citizens during these operations have further intensified scrutiny and calls for reform at the Department of Homeland Security.