Summary
A survey by the Partnership for Public Service found low trust in political leadership among employees at U.S. immigration agencies, CBP and ICE, during President Trump's current administration. The survey shows employees lack confidence in leadership integrity and fear retaliation for reporting issues. There is concern about the work culture and employee protections in these federal agencies.
Key Facts
- The survey took place from November 10 to December 19, 2025.
- Only 21% of CBP employees and 9% of ICE employees trust their political leaders.
- Trust levels in leadership at the agencies are about 20% for CBP and 12% for ICE.
- Few employees believe they can report issues without fear of retaliation (23% for CBP, 18% for ICE).
- Less than a quarter of CBP and about 20% of ICE respondents feel their work quality has improved.
- The survey involved 1,121 Department of Homeland Security employees, including 395 from CBP and 56 from ICE.
- The survey followed the cancellation of the 2025 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey by the Trump administration.
- The White House has distanced itself from administration comments describing a shooting victim as a "domestic terrorist."
