Americans view ICE more positively than Democrats, Newsom, and AOC

A new public opinion survey suggests the Democratic Party is facing significant image problems with voters across the United States.

According to a recent NBC News poll, more respondents expressed favorable views of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) than of the Democratic Party itself. The agency, which enforces federal immigration laws and conducts operations targeting illegal immigration, has been the subject of intense criticism from many Democratic politicians and activist groups. Despite those campaigns against the agency, the survey showed ICE holding a stronger standing with respondents than the party.

The poll surveyed 1,000 registered voters through cellphone interviews and online questionnaires between Feb. 27 and March 3. Results showed that 38 percent of participants said they had a positive opinion of ICE, choosing either “very positive” or “somewhat positive.” Meanwhile, 56 percent said they viewed the agency negatively.

Although a majority of respondents still had an unfavorable view of ICE, the Democratic Party’s numbers were worse. Only 30 percent of respondents said they had a positive view of Democrats, while 52 percent said their opinion of the party was negative.

The survey results come as political tensions remain high across the country, with protests and demonstrations frequently tied to issues such as immigration enforcement and broader ideological disputes. Critics argue that aggressive activism and unrest have not improved the party’s standing with voters.

The poll also measured public attitudes toward several prominent Democratic figures, and the results reflected similar challenges.

Kamala Harris received positive ratings from 34 percent of respondents, while 51 percent viewed her negatively. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York was viewed favorably by 31 percent of those surveyed. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is often mentioned as a possible future presidential candidate, had the lowest favorable rating among those listed, with 27 percent expressing a positive opinion.

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According to a new NBC poll, American voters like ICE more than the entire Democratic Party! pic.twitter.com/GbGzSOBE41

— David M. McIntosh (@DavidMMcintosh) March 9, 2026

In each case, the political figures recorded fewer negative responses than ICE did. However, unlike the immigration agency, they are not typically the focus of organized protest campaigns or activist pressure.

What these numbers might mean for upcoming elections is still unclear. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching in about eight months, the favorability ratings for the Democratic Party and its leading figures could become an important factor for voters and political strategists alike.