President Trump is set to send over 200 Homeland Security Officers to conduct a significant immigration operation in Chicago.
The operation will be launched from the Great Lakes Navy Station, located just outside the city, with plans to commence in September, as reported by a news outlet.
Tom Homan, Trump’s Border Czar, confirmed the administration’s intentions to flood Chicago and other sanctuary cities with immigration agents.
“Just look at the crime rate in Chicago. Operations are bound to escalate across the country. You can expect more activity in Chicago. New York will definitely see a rise in operations too,” he stated.
Homan also remarked, “These sanctuary cities that refuse to assist ICE are releasing threats to public safety daily, particularly in those areas.”
Meanwhile, Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson has criticized the city for being a target of the Trump administration and has condemned the planned action.
He mentioned, “This plan seems like a repeat of strategies used in Los Angeles, where ICE was leveraged to justify increased federal and National Guard presence.” Adding, “We oppose any measures that endanger Chicago residents for political gain.”
Following the deployment of DHS and National Guard forces to Washington, D.C. earlier this month to tackle crime, Trump hinted that Chicago might be next on the list.
“The President’s message is clear. We are working to make our streets and cities safe again. Nationwide, DHS is actively apprehending and removing serious offenders, including gang members, murderers, and others who threaten communities,” a senior DHS official mentioned.
The request by Homeland Security to utilize naval bases is awaiting approval from the Pentagon, according to reports. The application outlines a 30-day operation within the Chicago metropolitan area.
If approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Navy Base will aid in providing necessary facilities and infrastructure, accommodating around 250 DHS personnel, along with a Tactical Operations Center and an Incident Command Post.
Traditionally used for training new recruits, the base is equipped with essentials like bathrooms, laundry facilities, parking for 140 vehicles, and supplies like rubber bullets and tear gas.
The operation is slated to launch on September 2nd, as per the reports.
