Calls to Hamstring ICE Raise Concerns Over Public Safety and Costs

Proposed limits on Immigration and Customs Enforcement could lead to increased crime and welfare spending, experts warn.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A new poll shows two-thirds of Americans now disapprove of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as Democratic politicians push to limit the agency's abilities. Experts warn that hampering ICE could lead to a rise in crime by illegal immigrants and increased taxpayer costs for welfare benefits.

Why it matters

The growing movement to restrict ICE's operations raises public safety concerns, as data shows illegal immigrants commit crimes at higher rates than legal residents. It also threatens to drive up government spending on welfare for those in the country unlawfully.

The details

Democratic politicians in several states have moved to limit cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE, with some even calling for the agency's abolition. This comes amid a surge in violent crime during the Biden administration's tenure, which coincided with an influx of illegal immigration. ICE data shows over 60% of those arrested by the agency in the past year had pending criminal charges or convictions.

  • The Harvard/Harris poll was conducted just after the shooting of anti-ICE activist Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.
  • Last week, New York City police arrested four gun-toting criminals ages 18 to 20 who had just robbed a couple, with three of the suspects already wanted on ICE detainers.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who was elected to enforce immigration laws.

Joe Biden

The former president whose four-year term saw a surge in violent crime and unprecedented illegal immigration.

Todd Lyons

The ICE Acting Director who testified to Congress that over 60% of those arrested by ICE in the last year have pending criminal charges or convictions.

Abigail Spanberger

The governor of Virginia who ordered state law enforcement to dissolve any partnerships with ICE.

JB Pritzker

The governor of Illinois who is calling for the abolition of ICE.

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What they’re saying

“No New Yorker should be afraid to apply for city services like child care because they are an immigrant.”

— Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor (realclearpolitics.com)

“The influx of illegals 'would destroy New York City'.”

— Eric Adams, Former New York City Mayor (realclearpolitics.com)

What’s next

Experts say ICE's training procedures need to be adapted to handle the new reality of subversive agitators obstructing the agency's operations, in order to allow ICE to safely carry out its core mission of removing criminal illegal immigrants.

The takeaway

Limiting ICE's ability to enforce immigration laws could lead to a rise in crime and a surge in taxpayer-funded welfare costs for illegal immigrants, undermining public safety and straining government budgets.