A wave of public support has emerged for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as President Donald Trump’s mass deportation program intensifies. On July 25, 2025, sentiments echoing “We The People” applaud the agencies for removing “criminal illegals,” crediting them with bolstering national security. ICE reports arresting 66,463 undocumented immigrants in Trump’s first 100 days, with 75% having criminal convictions or charges, including 1,329 sex offenses and 498 murders. Deportations reached 65,682, surpassing fiscal year 2024’s total at-large arrests under Biden.
The administration’s focus on “the worst of the worst,” as stated by acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, includes gang members and violent offenders, with 2,288 arrests tied to groups like Tren de Aragua and MS-13. Supporters argue these efforts, backed by $29.9 billion in congressional funding, are saving communities from crime. A July 2025 Rasmussen poll shows 62% of Americans favor stricter immigration enforcement, reflecting widespread approval.
Critics, however, highlight that nearly half of the 59,000 detainees as of June 23 lack criminal records, per CBS News analysis. The Deportation Data Project notes a 250% surge in non-criminal detentions since May, raising concerns about overreach. California Governor Gavin Newsom has criticized the “indiscriminate” targeting of immigrant families. Legal challenges, including a California judge’s ruling against ICE raids, underscore tensions over due process.
The debate remains polarized, with supporters viewing ICE and CBP as guardians of law and order, while opponents warn of economic and humanitarian costs, including potential $967 billion GDP losses from deportations. As Trump’s “America First” agenda pushes forward, public gratitude for ICE and CBP reflects a broader divide over immigration policy.
