The Trump administration is gearing up to initiate significant immigration enforcement operations in Chicago, with plans reportedly set to commence as early as September 5. Sources from CBS News have indicated that these operations will employ tactics similar to those that incited widespread protests in Los Angeles earlier this year.
Two senior officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have confirmed that the administration aims to expand its immigration arrest operations in Chicago, mirroring the controversial actions taken in Los Angeles during the spring. The Los Angeles operations included the use of armored vehicles, tactical gear, and weaponry, and similar tactics are anticipated to be deployed in Chicago.
In June, President Trump had deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles in response to massive protests against actions taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). During that time, Chicago officials received word that tactical units from ICE were also preparing to assist in operations within the city. Chief of Staff Cristina Pacione-Zayas noted that the city had been informed these tactical teams were on standby with just 48 hours' notice to deploy. However, those units never arrived in Chicago.
It remains unclear whether the upcoming immigration enforcement operations are part of the previously stalled efforts or if they represent a separate initiative entirely. Sources indicate that these plans are distinct from President Trump’s recent push to deploy the National Guard to combat crime in Chicago.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have strongly opposed these federal plans. Governor Pritzker issued a stern warning to Trump, stating, "Mr. President, do not come to Chicago. You are neither wanted here, nor needed here."
Reports from CBS News Chicago reveal that the Department of Homeland Security has engaged in discussions with administrators at the Naval Station Great Lakes regarding logistical support for ICE personnel involved in immigration enforcement in the Chicago area. However, it remains uncertain whether these talks were initiated as a direct response to the anticipated escalation of immigration enforcement.
Governor Pritzker has stated that he has not been approached by the Trump administration, nor has anyone in his administration been contacted. He expressed concerns that the federal government is attempting to "invade the city of Chicago" rather than coordinate with local law enforcement.
Mayor Johnson has also commented on the situation, indicating that while he has heard media reports about the planned operations, neither he nor his office has received any direct communication from the federal government.
The Department of Homeland Security released a statement reaffirming President Trump’s commitment to making American streets and cities safe again. The statement emphasized that DHS law enforcement is actively working to arrest and remove individuals deemed as the "worst of the worst," including gang members, murderers, pedophiles, and rapists who have allegedly terrorized American communities. Under Secretary Noem stated that ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are dedicated to fulfilling the American people's mandate to deport criminal illegal aliens and ensure the safety of the nation.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these planned immigration enforcement operations will affect the city of Chicago and its residents.
