Chicago Mayor Opposes DHS Immigration Enforcement Amid Trump-Era Policy Debate
Chicago Mayor Opposes DHS Immigration Enforcement Amid Trump-Era Policy Debate
The Department of Homeland Security’s ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ a ramped-up immigration enforcement initiative targeting Chicago, has drawn strong opposition from Mayor Brandon Johnson, who states the city received no prior notice. The operation, announced by DHS, aims to apprehend what it describes as ‘criminal illegal aliens’ who have allegedly sought refuge in Illinois due to its sanctuary policies.
A DHS statement on Monday declared the operation would focus on the ‘worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens in Chicago,’ though it did not specify the duration. ICE confirmed its ongoing presence in Chicago, asserting its mission to target dangerous individuals and enhance resources in coordination with federal partners.
The department dedicated the mission to Katie Abraham and Chloe Polzin, who died in a drunk driving hit-and-run earlier this year involving Julio Cucul Bol, a Guatemalan citizen now in custody. Joe Abraham, Katie’s father, expressed hopes that no other family would endure similar tragedy, criticizing current policies.
In response, Governor JB Pritzker accused the Trump administration of failing to coordinate or communicate, calling the effort a distraction rather than a genuine public safety initiative. Mayor Johnson reiterated the city’s opposition to any ‘militarized immigration enforcement without due process,’ citing concerns over ICE’s historical track record of alleged human rights abuses and the detention of American citizens. He urged residents to utilize ‘know your rights’ resources provided by the city.
The announcement followed a social media post by President Trump, referencing ‘deportations’ and labeling Chicago as a target for the ‘Department of WAR.’ Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) also condemned the administration, claiming the actions target ‘hardworking immigrants with no criminal convictions,’ calling them a waste of resources that stoke fear.
A CBS News poll indicated that 58% of Americans oppose the deployment of the National Guard to cities beyond Washington, D.C., a sentiment largely divided along party lines.
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