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Immigration Becomes a Political Flashpoint for Trump After Minnesota Shooting
MLN — 19 JAN 2026: President Donald Trump is facing early signs of political strain over his immigration enforcement strategy as new polling shows declining approval following the fatal shooting of a woman by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minnesota earlier this month.
Several recent national surveys indicate Trump’s approval on immigration has slipped to one of its lowest points since he returned to the White House. A Reuters poll found support for his immigration approach at a post-inauguration low.
While an AP-NORC survey showed just 38 percent of Americans approve of his enforcement policies, down from earlier highs this year. Other polls have found a majority of voters saying ICE actions are making U.S. cities less safe.
The shift comes after the killing of 37-year-old Renée Good in Minneapolis during an ICE operation. Administration officials have said the officer involved acted in self-defense, while Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem labeled Good’s actions as domestic terrorism. The shooting sparked protests nationwide and intensified scrutiny of federal enforcement tactics.
Polling suggests the incident has resonated across party lines. A Quinnipiac University survey found a majority of voters believe the shooting was unjustified, including a notable share of independents . The same survey showed growing concern about ICE’s conduct, even among voters who broadly support tougher immigration enforcement.
Some Republican strategists said the issue carries political risk. Jason Cabel Roe, a GOP strategist, said immigration is the type of issue that can escalate quickly if public confidence erodes.
Others noted that while voters generally support deporting immigrants who commit serious crimes, there is less support for enforcement actions perceived as overly aggressive.
Criticism has also emerged from some conservative media figures, while Republican leaders in Washington have largely defended the administration’s approach. The White House said Trump is delivering on campaign promises and that Americans remain supportive of efforts to enforce immigration laws.
Democratic strategists argue the issue could shape upcoming midterm races, though some caution against pushing rhetoric too far. Republican strategists counter that public opinion could shift again, depending on how both parties frame the debate in the months ahead.
As immigration enforcement remains a central focus for the administration, analysts say voter reactions to incidents like the Minnesota shooting and the strong opinions reflected in recent polling could increasingly shape political dynamics and influence attitudes heading into November’s elections.
