Law School Survey Finds Declining Support for ICE

Marquette University poll shows 60% of adults nationwide disapprove of ICE's handling of its duties.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A recent national survey conducted by Marquette University Law School found that 60% of adults nationwide disapprove of the way U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is handling its job. The poll was conducted after a high-profile shooting incident involving ICE, with most interviews completed before another shooting incident. The results show a strong partisan divide, with 80% of Republicans approving of ICE's actions compared to only 40% of adults overall.

Why it matters

The survey results suggest growing public opposition to ICE's tactics and operations, which have faced increasing scrutiny and criticism from law schools, students, and civil liberties advocates. The findings challenge the notion of a 'silent majority' supporting ICE, and raise questions about the agency's future direction and public legitimacy.

The details

The Marquette University Law School poll found that over 60% of adults nationwide disapprove of how ICE is handling its duties. The poll was conducted after a high-profile shooting incident involving ICE, with most interviews completed before another shooting. The results show a stark partisan divide, with 80% of Republicans approving of ICE's actions compared to only 40% of adults overall.

  • The Marquette University Law School poll was conducted in February 2026.
  • Most of the poll's interviews were completed before a shooting incident involving ICE on January 24, 2026.

The players

Marquette University Law School

A law school that conducted a national survey on public perceptions of ICE.

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The takeaway

The Marquette University Law School survey results suggest growing public opposition to ICE's tactics and operations, challenging the notion of widespread support for the agency. This could have significant implications for ICE's future direction and public legitimacy.