Illinois Governor Addresses Illegal Immigration and Crime
During a discussion on FOX News Channel’s “Special Report,” Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) spoke about the case of two illegal immigrants facing felony charges. One individual was arrested in Chicago but was released after a judge reportedly suggested that the decision was possibly misguided. Pritzker highlighted that while focusing on individual immigrants, there are numerous American citizens across the nation who also commit crimes.
When host Bret Baier asked if illegal immigrants charged or convicted of felonies should be deported, Pritzker replied, “I believe we should remove violent criminals from my state and the country entirely. However, that’s not the focus right now. They are targeting those considered the worst offenders.”
Baier interjected, questioning why the state wasn’t doing more, noting Illinois’ status as a sanctuary state. Pritzker replied, clarifying that if presented with a judicial warrant, authorities would do everything possible to remove dangerous individuals. He expressed a desire to see violent offenders off the streets while also speaking against racial profiling, which he claims is occurring at present.
Baier mentioned earlier incidents where two illegal immigrants were charged in the murder of a 63-year-old man found tied up in his home. These suspects, both age 20, hailed from Ecuador and Venezuela. One had been released at the Texas border earlier in 2023, while the other was arrested in Chicago in January for soliciting minors. Baier noted that ICE’s request for their detention was overlooked due to local policies.
Pritzker emphasized that all detainees undergo due process, including trials or hearings to determine their detention status. He asserted that if someone is deemed a threat to the community in Illinois, they would be held accordingly. While judges can make errors, he noted that crime is not exclusive to immigrants, as many Americans also perpetrate offenses.
Pritzker concluded that targeting gang members and the most dangerous individuals is essential for ICE, aiming to reduce the presence of gangs, weapons, and drugs on the streets.
