Trump is allocating additional ICE personnel and assets towards Chicago
In a significant development, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced on CBS News' "Face the Nation" the expansion of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, targeting the city of Chicago. The announcement has sparked controversy and resistance from local leadership.
The planned reinforcement includes additional resources such as immigration enforcement agents and support staff, advanced technology for surveillance and tracking, and increased funding for operational activities. These reinforcements are expected to be deployed in Chicago in the coming weeks, despite protests from local politicians.
Mayor Brandon Johnson, who leads the city of Chicago under Democratic leadership, has signed an order barring the Chicago Police Department from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. The order bars city police from helping with civil immigration enforcement or related patrols, traffic stops, and checkpoints. Under the order, city police must wear their official uniforms, identify themselves, and follow body camera procedures.
Johnson has threatened to sue if Trump moves forward with the plan to expand the immigration crackdown in Chicago. He described the potential federal mobilization as "an invasion with US troops." Johnson further stated that National Guard troops or any kind of troops on the streets of an American city only belong in the event of an insurrection or a true emergency.
The city of Chicago, home to a large immigrant population, has some of the country's strongest rules against cooperating with federal government immigration enforcement efforts. Last week, the DHS reportedly requested limited logistical support from officials at a military installation near Chicago.
Trump has criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, warning Pritzker in a social media post to straighten out Chicago's crime problems quickly or face intervention. The announcement comes after the controversial deployment of National Guard troops to Washington, DC.
Johnson has stated that the order aims to offer "real, clear guidance" to city government workers and "all the Chicagoans" on how to stand up against potential federal intervention. Johnson has also rejected the potential for federal mobilization in Chicago, stating that such actions are unnecessary and counterproductive.
City police are not allowed to wear masks to distinguish themselves from federal agents, a measure intended to maintain transparency and prevent confusion. However, Noem did not provide details about which federal authorities would go to Chicago or when they would be deployed.
The Trump administration's plans to expand its immigration crackdown in Chicago have sparked heated debates and protests, with many questioning the necessity and legality of such actions. The city's leadership and residents remain vigilant, ready to defend their rights and the city's values.
