A new national poll reveals a significant wave of disapproval regarding the performance of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary, with a majority of voters now calling for her removal from office.
The Quinnipiac University survey, conducted at the end of January and beginning of February, found that 58% of respondents believe it’s time for a change in leadership, while only 34% support her continued service. This sentiment arises during a period of heightened national debate surrounding immigration policy and the use of force by federal agents.
The calls for removal intensified following two fatal shootings in Minnesota involving federal agents and U.S. citizens who were protesting the administration’s deportation policies. The incidents sparked outrage and accusations of excessive force.
Following the second shooting, involving Alex Pretti, a legally armed ICU nurse, the Secretary initially characterized his actions as “domestic terrorism,” claiming he posed a threat to agents. However, video footage emerged painting a drastically different picture.
The videos appeared to show Pretti attending to a woman who had been knocked down by agents when he was suddenly sprayed with an irritant, pushed to the ground, and assaulted. Witnesses stated he was holding a cell phone, not a weapon, when agents ultimately discharged their firearms, resulting in his death.
The administration has faced growing criticism from both sides of the aisle, with prominent Democrats and at least two Republican senators publicly demanding the Secretary’s resignation. Despite this pressure, the President has voiced his continued support, praising her performance as “GREAT.”
In a recent interview, the Secretary defended her actions, attributing the calls for her removal to “radicals” and asserting she is simply fulfilling her duty to enforce the law as promised. She also directed blame towards Democratic leadership in Minnesota, accusing them of hindering law enforcement efforts.
The Quinnipiac poll highlights a stark partisan divide on the issue. An overwhelming 91% of Democrats and 63% of Independents favor her removal, while only 17% of Republicans share that view.
Beyond the Secretary’s position, the poll also indicates a decline in public approval of the President’s handling of immigration. His approval rating on the issue has dropped from 44% in mid-December to 38%.
Recent polls reveal a nuanced view of the President’s handling of border security, with a 52%-47% approval rating, but a more negative 45%-55% rating on immigration overall. This suggests a growing public concern about the broader approach to immigration policy.
In a surprising move, the administration announced the removal of 700 federal immigration agents from Minnesota, a state with roughly 3,000 agents. This decision comes amidst calls for a more measured approach to enforcement.
The President himself has hinted at a potential shift in strategy, suggesting a need for a “softer touch” in immigration enforcement, while still emphasizing the importance of maintaining a firm stance. This internal debate reflects the complex challenges facing the administration as it navigates the politically charged issue of immigration.
