Partial Drawdown In Minnesota, NPR Poll: Trump and ICE, Nuclear Treaty Expires - Up First Recap

Podcast: Up First

Published: 2026-02-05

Duration: 13 minutes

Summary

The episode covers the partial withdrawal of federal agents from Minnesota, shifting public opinion on ICE, and the expiration of the New START Treaty between the U.S. and Russia.

What Happened

In Minnesota, 700 federal agents are set to leave after a period of heightened immigration enforcement and protests. White House Border Czar Tom Homan indicates that many agents will remain, but the goal is to revert to pre-surge numbers and focus on other regions needing enforcement.

A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll reveals that 65% of Americans believe ICE has overstepped its bounds. This marks a significant shift in public opinion from just a year ago when immigration was seen as one of President Trump's strengths.

President Trump acknowledges a need for a softer approach to immigration enforcement, despite maintaining a tough stance. His recent remarks hint at a rare moment of reflection, although he continues to emphasize dealing with criminals.

The poll also shows Trump's declining approval ratings, with only 39% of Americans approving of his job performance. His foreign policy decisions, such as the Greenland purchase idea, have also faced significant public and international criticism.

The expiration of the New START Treaty raises concerns about a new arms race between the U.S. and Russia. The treaty had limited nuclear arsenals and allowed for inspections, a framework built on mutual trust.

Russia unsuccessfully tried to extend the treaty, but geopolitical tensions, particularly over Ukraine, have stalled negotiations. The Kremlin warns of a more dangerous world without the treaty, and experts fear both nations will prepare for worst-case scenarios.

The U.S. seeks a more comprehensive arms control framework but faces challenges, including the inclusion of other nuclear powers. With no new agreements in place, the risk of escalation between the U.S. and Russia remains high.

Key Insights

• In Minnesota, 700 federal agents are leaving after a surge in immigration enforcement, but many will remain to maintain pre-surge levels and focus on other regions.
• An NPR/PBS/Marist poll indicates that 65% of Americans believe ICE has overstepped its bounds, reflecting a significant shift in public opinion from the previous year.
• President Trump's approval ratings have declined to 39%, with foreign policy decisions like the Greenland purchase idea facing public and international criticism.
• The expiration of the New START Treaty raises concerns about a potential arms race between the U.S. and Russia, as the treaty had previously limited nuclear arsenals and allowed for inspections.