Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has directed the city police to refrain from collaborating with federal agents and the military as President Trump plans to intensify operations in response to immigration issues.
In an executive order signed on Saturday, the Democratic mayor—who has been critical of the president—specified that local law enforcement should not assist the National Guard or any federal operations within the city limits.
“We don’t have the luxury of time,” Johnson emphasized during a press briefing, accompanied by leaders from other cities.
“We’ve received credible information suggesting that militarized activities from the federal government are imminent—likely in days rather than weeks,” he added, noting the uncertainty surrounding what this might entail.
His directive aims to provide a clear framework for city employees and residents on how to resist what he describes as “tyranny.”
The order emphasizes that officers must remain in uniform, clearly identify themselves, adhere to body camera protocols, and avoid direct interaction with federal agents while enforcing local laws.
Johnson’s directive also stipulates that federal agents must not wear face masks and must follow the same regulations applicable to local police, while urging Trump to halt military deployments.
“If necessary, we will take this to court,” Johnson warned.
Following the dispatch of the Department of Homeland Security and the National Guard to Washington, D.C., to tackle crime there, Trump implied that Chicago would be the “next” location for similar action.
Trump’s immigration chief, Tom Homan, has also threatened to send ICE agents to additional sanctuary cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle.
The White House criticized Johnson’s actions, calling them a publicity “stunt” aimed at Trump’s anti-crime initiatives.
“These Democrats would be better served focusing on combating crime in their own cities rather than engaging in propagandistic theatrics against the president,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated.
“Addressing crime should not be a matter of partisan debate.”
