Chicago Mayor’s Stance on ICE Cooperation
On Tuesday, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, a Democrat, asserted that the Chicago Police Department will not “cooperate” with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. This statement comes despite warnings from officials during the Trump administration, who claimed that such a stance could lead to legal repercussions.
There are several legal risks for a mayor, including:
- Obstructing federal agents, such as guiding undocumented individuals about impending raids, which could violate obstruction laws.
- Destroying federal records or evidence.
- Ignoring specific court orders or federal laws.
Johnson criticized the Trump administration for inciting “consternation and division” through its aggressive deportation policies.
“It’s unconscionable that at a time when many working people need government support, the Trump administration has created so much division,” Johnson remarked at a press conference.
This comment was in response to a question about whether local law enforcement would be used to protect students from federal immigration actions.
“We follow the welcoming city ordinance,” Johnson stated. “Our local police will never work with ICE, regardless of their constitutional claims. This is all part of what the Trump administration has done. Our city departments have been thoroughly briefed about their roles,” he added.
Since August 31, 2022, Chicago has welcomed over 51,000 undocumented individuals. Johnson urged residents to “rise up” against ICE.
“We must push back,” Johnson emphasized in June. “Whether through legal means or protests, our voices matter now.”
“This is a fight for our culture, democracy, and humanity,” he continued. “I urge all of Chicago to stand against this because any vulnerable group targeted today could be next… none of us are safe from this threat.”
Johnson’s remarks followed a surge in funding for ICE due to a spending bill passed during the Trump administration, allowing for more raids against undocumented immigrants.
In response, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson criticized Democrats for prioritizing “violent criminal illegal aliens” over American citizens.
“Democrat leaders seem desperate to protect violent illegal aliens over the American public. It’s unjust and is part of why people rejected Democrats in the last election,” she stated.
“No matter how much Democrats defend these individuals, Trump and his administration are committed to protecting Americans,” she added. “President Trump aims to execute the largest mass deportation operation in history, specifically targeting sanctuary cities that shelter criminal immigrants.”
