The recent shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by federal agent Jonathan Ross during an immigration protest in Minneapolis on January 7 has led to widespread condemnation and heightened tensions regarding the operations of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The incident has resulted in increased hostility towards ICE agents, with reports indicating that some drivers are making gun gestures as they pass ICE patrols.

Public sentiment towards ICE has notably shifted, particularly in light of the agency's aggressive tactics during the Trump administration. This change is reportedly impacting ICE's ability to secure criminal convictions, as juries are becoming less inclined to trust the evidence presented by ICE agents. Additionally, the Border Patrol, which collaborates with ICE, is facing difficulties in recruiting agents for operations in Minneapolis, as indicated by internal documents.

Polling data reflects a significant decline in public approval for ICE, with a YouGov survey showing a drop from +16 to -13 in approval ratings since February. The poll also revealed that 52% of respondents disapprove of ICE's methods, with 51% believing the agency employs excessive force. Support for abolishing ICE has risen to 42%, up from 19% in the summer of 2024, particularly among Democratic voters.

In response to the shooting, Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) has called for the arrest and prosecution of officer Jonathan Ross, emphasizing that the issues within ICE extend beyond the actions of a single officer. Khanna described ICE as having "gone rogue" and has advocated for greater accountability within the agency. He has co-authored legislation that would require ICE agents to wear body cameras, display visible identification, and refrain from wearing masks during operations.

Concerns have been raised by former ICE agents regarding the potential for increased violence against officers, as the agency's heavy-handed approach and the current political climate contribute to a perception of danger for those involved in immigration enforcement. Videos have surfaced showing federal immigration officials engaging in aggressive tactics during operations in Minneapolis, including breaking the windows of a woman's car and forcibly removing her during a protest against an ICE raid. Additional footage showed agents deploying tear gas and pepper balls against demonstrators, actions that have become increasingly common in the area.

Reports also indicated that ICE agents were stopping individuals in a Minneapolis parking lot, demanding proof of their immigration status, with a notable focus on people of color. Despite the visible unrest and confrontations between residents and federal officials, President Donald Trump dismissed the protests as "fake," suggesting that they were orchestrated and lacking authenticity.