Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino responded sharply after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson referred to him as a “savage.” Bovino argued that such anti-police language contributes to real-world violence against immigration officers.
This exchange followed a court order from U.S. District Judge Sarah Ellis compelling Bovino to testify about allegations that he disregarded a ban on using tear gas and other crowd control measures during protests. Post-court appearance, Bovino has started using a body camera and is now required to report to the judge nightly.
Bovino commented on Johnson’s remarks during an interview on “The Faulkner Focus,” stating, “That’s the kind of violent rhetoric that incites violence against law enforcement officers.” He questioned how such language impacts the safety and ethical responsibilities of police in Chicago.
In his remarks, Johnson condemned Bovino, stating he hoped a federal judge would hold him accountable for his actions.
Bovino’s legal struggles arose from an incident in the Little Village neighborhood, where Border Patrol agents reported being assaulted with various projectiles. A judicial review is ongoing following the release of footage showing Bovino deploying tear gas against protesters—this came after complaints about police excessive force and a restraining order limiting riot control methods against peaceful demonstrators and journalists.
In defense of Bovino, the Department of Homeland Security unveiled their own video, showing the aggressive actions directed at him, with Tom Homan, often referred to as “Border Czar,” supporting his decisions on “The Faulkner Focus.” Bovino confirmed he would adhere to the judge’s orders, stating, “If she wants to see me every day, she will.” He expressed a willingness to explain the violence faced by law enforcement in Chicago during future court appearances.
The clashes have taken place amid Operation Midway Blitz, a federal crackdown initiative that has led to over 1,000 arrests of immigrants in Illinois. Local authorities, including Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, have voiced concerns about racial profiling and the detainment of both undocumented immigrants and lawful U.S. citizens—claims that the administration has categorically denied.
