Community Poll Reveals Whittier Residents Largely Unconcerned About ICE Activity, But Some Express Fear

In the wake of online rumors, social media claims, and polarized opinions about recent immigration enforcement in the region, Whittier 360 News Network conducted a public poll to assess how concerned residents of Whittier are about potential abuse or misconduct by ICE in the community.

The goal of the poll was not to document specific incidents, but rather to measure the overall level of fear and concern among residents—whether those concerns stemmed from firsthand experience or stories heard through social media, news reports, or community conversations.

The question posed was:

A total of 532 Whittier residents participated in this community poll, which was shared across multiple local platforms to ensure broad visibility and accessibility. Every respondent confirmed that they live in Whittier.

While this was not a scientific survey in the academic sense, it serves as a meaningful snapshot of public sentiment. The poll was designed to measure levels of concern, fear, or trust around ICE activity—regardless of whether those feelings were based on direct observation or what respondents had seen or heard online or in conversation.

Given the strong participation and local focus, this community poll provides valuable insight into how the people of Whittier are reacting to recent narratives about immigration enforcement. Over 100 local participants responded. The results were as follows:

• ✅ 70% responded NO, indicating they had neither witnessed nor suspected any misconduct.

• ⚠️ 15% responded YES, saying they had either seen abuse or suspected it occurred.

• 🤔 5% were unsure.

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Understanding the Results

The poll reflects that a majority of respondents have not experienced or observed anything personally troubling about ICE behavior locally, and are not motivated by fear in their daily lives. However, a smaller—yet still significant—percentage indicated some level of concern, based either on personal experience or secondhand accounts.

It's important to note that this poll did not differentiate between those who witnessed abuse firsthand and those who suspected it based on what they heard or read. Both types of responses were grouped under one answer to better reflect the total emotional and psychological impact of the issue on the community.

A follow-up poll is being planned to provide a clearer distinction.

The Bigger Picture

Community perception—especially about law enforcement or immigration—is shaped not only by fact but by emotion, news coverage, social media, and past experiences. Whether fear is rooted in truth or rumor, it has real consequences, and deserves to be understood.

At Whittier 360, we strive to report not just what happens—but also how the community feels, so that public discourse can be grounded in both truth and empathy.

Community Discussion & Broader Context

The poll sparked active discussion on Nextdoor, where local residents shared a range of reactions. Some expressed confidence in local ICE operations, while others raised concern about due process, warrants, or perceived overreach. This variety of responses underscores the importance of measuring not only facts, but also how those facts are experienced and perceived within the community.

Although 15% may seem like a small portion of the sample, when extrapolated to Whittier’s total population of roughly 87,500, it represents an estimated 13,000 residents who either witnessed or suspected misconduct. That’s not insignificant.

And even if only a small number of those are based on firsthand experience, a single credible report of abuse by any law enforcement agency—local or federal—warrants investigation and accountability. Public trust depends on transparency and the willingness to take all concerns seriously, no matter how widespread they may be.

What’s Next?

We will be conducting a follow-up poll later this week to ask residents to clarify whether their concern is based on:

1. Personal observation, or

2. Reports from others, media, or social media.

Stay tuned—and thank you to everyone who contributed to the conversation with respect and honesty.

📍 You can join the ongoing discussion on our verified Whittier 360 News Network page on Nextdoor and Facebook.Follow us for updates.