The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) is facing increasing scrutiny and calls for its abolition, particularly in light of the shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the agency's practices and its role in U.S. immigration enforcement.

Polling data reveals that a substantial portion of the American public supports the abolition of ICE, with a recent survey indicating that 46% of respondents favor this action. This level of support surpasses that for the Internal Revenue Service, suggesting growing discontent with ICE's operations. Additionally, other polls have shown that a majority of Americans believe ICE's actions have been excessively forceful.

Despite this public sentiment, Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have been hesitant to advocate for significant changes to ICE, including funding cuts. Concerns about political backlash, particularly the potential association with the “Defund the Police” movement, have contributed to this reluctance.

A CNN poll conducted by SSRS indicates that 56% of Americans consider the shooting of Renee Good to be an inappropriate use of force, with only 26% viewing it as justified. Furthermore, 51% assert that ICE enforcement actions contribute to decreased safety in cities, while only 31% believe they enhance safety. The public's response to the shooting has highlighted a partisan divide, with over 80% of Democrats condemning the use of force and expressing concerns about ICE's impact on urban safety.

ICE, established in 2003, lacks the cultural representation that traditional police forces have in American media, which may contribute to its unpopularity. Unlike police, ICE does not have a narrative of heroism in popular culture, and its actions are often depicted negatively in social media and news reports. Critics argue that ICE has effectively become a tool of state aggression, operating with little accountability.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, some Democratic candidates are encouraged to adopt a platform that includes calls for the abolition of ICE, framing it as a matter of good governance and public safety. Advocates for abolition argue that addressing ICE's practices is not only a political strategy but also a moral imperative, reflecting a commitment to humanitarian principles and social equity. The ongoing controversies surrounding ICE present an opportunity for political mobilization, particularly in districts where voter turnout is typically low.

Trust in the federal government to conduct a fair investigation into the shooting is low, with only 37% of respondents expressing confidence in its ability to do so. The Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division has declined to investigate the incident, raising concerns about accountability and transparency in cases involving law enforcement use of deadly force. The FBI is currently investigating the shooting, while the state of Minnesota has reportedly been obstructed from conducting its own inquiry into the matter.