ICE Director Critiques Chicago Mayor’s Comments
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons took aim at Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson on Thursday, asserting that President Donald Trump is using ICE as a “militarized force” to instill “anxiety and fear.”
“For an elected official like the mayor of Chicago to liken us to militarized forces is completely inappropriate and wrong,” Lyons stated during an appearance on “Fox & Friends” alongside Lawrence Jones. He emphasized that the mayor should reflect on the crime situation in Chicago, implying that the sanctuary policies have allowed criminal activity to flourish. “The men and women of ICE carry out law enforcement duties daily. They are some of the bravest individuals I’ve had the privilege to work with,” he added.
Lyons Calls for an Apology from the Mayor for ‘Terrorist Force’ Comments
Since Trump took office, ICE has been a point of contention, especially in Chicago, which has strong sanctuary policies and progressive leadership. Johnson’s previous comments, which included equating immigration enforcement with “terrorism,” and pondering the potential outcomes if the Confederates had won the Civil War, align with this ongoing rhetoric.
Amidst these tensions, Lyons recognized the risks that ICE officers face, highlighting a report from the Department of Homeland Security indicating an alarming 830% rise in attacks on ICE personnel from January 21 to July 14, 2025, compared to the same span the previous year.
DHS Responds to Criticism Amid Rising Threats to ICE Agents
The figures mark a significant increase since Trump assumed office. Despite the alarming statistics, some Democrats have suggested protective measures for ICE agents, a move met with fierce opposition from Republicans who argue that this could further endanger federal law enforcement.
On Wednesday, Fox News’ Martha McCullum interviewed several anonymous ICE officers who sought to clarify their role to the public. One officer, Selina, expressed pride in her work while acknowledging the personal risks involved. “It’s a dangerous job, but I believe in what we do,” she said.
Lyons commended her courage to speak out, stating that such acts of bravery often place their families in jeopardy. “They are proud of the work they do because they know it makes a difference for American citizens,” he concluded.
