In 2026, us reports record number of deportations and arrests amid mounting backlash

Deportations reach a new high

ICE carried out 483,200 deportations in 2026, according to the report. The total surpassed the previous record of 442,640, set in 2025, and was the highest in the agency’s 23-year history.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said fiscal year 2026 had the most deportations and arrests in ICE history. He also said September 2026 was the agency’s strongest September for arrests.

Views on enforcement differ

Camarota said increased removals could encourage more people to leave the country, describing that as a central goal of the administration. Trump said in a recent CBS 60 Minutes interview that some people would welcome the approach while others would consider it too tough.

Democrats plan to scrutinize ICE

Democrats appear set to challenge the crackdown when they take control of Congress next year. Their stated plans include targeting ICE tactics and expanding paths to legal status, though the article says limits may constrain what they can achieve.

Cuellar said Democrats would not be extreme, citing conservative voters across the United States who supported them. Senator-elect Peggy Flanagan said, “We will rip ICE apart,” while celebrating her win in Minnesota.

Fatal shootings draw attention

Federal immigration agents shot and killed two people during an enforcement surge in Minnesota in January. Their deaths drew international outrage after footage spread widely.