Kristi Noem Joins Controversial Illinois ICE Raid; DHS Denies US Citizens Arrested

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem participated in an early morning federal immigration operation in Elgin, Illinois, on Tuesday, leading to multiple arrests and sparking controversy over the brief detention of two U.S. citizens. While a CBS report indicated five arrests, including two U.S. citizens later released, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied any U.S. citizens were arrested, stating they were held briefly for safety during the operation.

A DHS spokesperson clarified, “No U.S. citizen was arrested, they were briefly held for their and officers’ safety while the operation in the house was under way. This is standard protocol.” DHS confirmed five individuals, all identified as illegal immigrants, were arrested as part of the raid.

Noem posted footage of the operation on X, which was part of a broader DHS initiative named “Operation Midway Blitz.” This enforcement effort targets “criminal noncitizens” in the Chicago metropolitan area and is expected to continue for several weeks. Officials stated that those arrested included individuals with convictions for DUI with a child passenger, violent assault, and felony stalking.

The Secretary’s direct involvement in the raid highlights the Trump administration’s heightened focus on immigration enforcement, with Noem becoming a prominent figure in these operations. Local reactions have been strong, with Illinois State Senator Cristina Castro telling CBS Chicago, “She can go to hell. Don’t come into my community.” Witnesses described a heavy federal presence, including helicopters, tactical vehicles, and bright spotlights during the raid.

This operation comes as the Trump administration continues its pledge for mass deportations, with ICE reporting significant increases in arrests and removals. DHS has signaled that “Operation Midway Blitz” will involve multiple federal agencies, including ICE, U.S. Marshals, the FBI, and Customs and Border Protection, in ongoing enforcement actions across the Chicago area.

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