DHS Secretary Noem Confirms Nationwide Expansion of Immigration Operations
DHS Secretary Noem Confirms Nationwide Expansion of Immigration Operations
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Sunday, August 31, 2025, that the department is actively considering expanding immigration enforcement operations to numerous cities across the United States. Speaking on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” Noem explicitly stated, “we haven’t taken anything off the table” when questioned about broadening Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities beyond current initiatives.
The Secretary’s remarks come on the heels of reports last week indicating that ICE is preparing to launch expanded operations in Chicago in the coming days, an effort that would mirror a similar, high-profile initiative conducted in Los Angeles earlier this year. Noem acknowledged existing ICE operations in various states, including Illinois, and affirmed the administration’s intention to “add more resources to those operations.”
While refraining from disclosing specific operational details for security reasons, Noem underscored the administration’s commitment to pursuing “the worst of the worst across the country,” aligning with President Trump’s directives. The Trump administration has increasingly focused on cities that limit local cooperation with federal immigration agents, often referred to as “sanctuary” jurisdictions.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has voiced strong opposition to the potential federal intervention, accusing Secretary Noem of “inflaming passions” and creating “dangerous” and “un-American” disruption. Pritzker highlighted that many residents potentially targeted have lived and contributed to their communities for decades as law-abiding members.
Conversely, Noem encouraged leaders of major U.S. cities, irrespective of political affiliation, to collaborate with the White House to enhance public safety. She emphasized that evaluations for intervention are not politically motivated and are solely aimed at making every city safer and more prosperous.
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