Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago openly opposed the anticipated influx of federal officers into the city, labeling the Trump administration's actions as “out-of-control.” He signed an executive order that prohibits the Chicago Police Department from collaborating with federal authorities on civil immigration enforcement, including patrols and checkpoints, amid concerns that the federal government might try to militarize immigration enforcement or deploy the National Guard.
During a news conference, when questioned about federal agents following directives from above, Johnson firmly stated that he does not take orders from the federal government. He has also mandated that Chicago police refrain from wearing face coverings to conceal their identities, a practice that has been adopted by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel since Trump's administration began.
According to unnamed U.S. officials, the federal operation could roll out as early as September 5 and is set to last about a month. This crackdown on immigration forms part of a broader initiative to enhance federal law enforcement presence in predominantly Democratic cities, similar to recent operations in Los Angeles.
Illinois and Chicago have established firm restrictions against assisting with federal immigration enforcement efforts, which stands in stark contrast to Trump’s mass deportation policy. Johnson's directive reinforces the city's long-standing position, asserting that city and state authorities were neither consulted nor involved in these federal plans, and he urged Trump to abandon this approach.
In his remarks, Johnson criticized Trump for allegedly acting outside the Constitution and pursuing a federal initiative in cities governed by Democrats as a form of political retaliation. He characterized Trump as a significant threat to democracy. In response, the White House countered that these federal actions are intended to address crime, suggesting that Democratic leaders should prioritize their cities' safety instead of criticizing the president.
5 Comments
Noir Black
Militarizing immigration enforcement is a recipe for disaster. Thank you, Mayor Johnson, for taking a stand.
Leonardo
It's the federal government's responsibility to enforce immigration laws, not ignore them because the local mayor is leftist.
Bermudez
Rather than address the problem of crime or address the crime gang issue he complains about the response from above.
ZmeeLove
Mayor Johnson is standing up for Chicago! We don't want Trump's gestapo in our city.
Muchacho
Why would the USA attempt to send personnel to foreign soil to do the job of policing.