Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago seems poised to follow suit. To that end, he will sign an executive order to oppose the anticipated immigration crackdown by the Trump administration. The move follows reports of a yet-to-be-officially-announced federal operation targeting Chicago. It might include an immediate National Guard deployment to the city.
The Trump administration, under the direction of border czar Tom Homan, has intensified plans for immigration enforcement in cities like Chicago. Homan mentioned that “operations are ramping up across the country,” adding, “You can see a ramp-up across the operations in Chicago, absolutely.” This proclamation signals that this administration is serious about getting more federal dollars into cities.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has publicly denounced the possible deployment of the National Guard, calling it an “invasion.” Pritzker expressed concern that the federal government might have ulterior motives, suggesting the aim could be to “stop the elections in 2026 or, frankly, take control of those elections.” He lamented that all of these efforts seem to aim much more at political purposes than public safety.
In response to all of these changes, Johnson’s executive order is an attempt to clarify how city agencies—and particularly law enforcement—should proceed. The order solidifies that Chicago police won’t lose their institutional independence. They refuse to engage in joint patrols, arrest operations, or any other civil immigration enforcement duty with federal agents.
“We will pursue all available legal and legislative avenues to resist coordinated efforts from the federal government,” – Source article
The White House is said to be plotting a bigger takeover of Democratic-run “sanctuary cities,” like Chicago. This last move has particularly alarmed local leaders, concerned about the impact on community safety and civil rights. The pressure leading up to these moves has already forced Johnson’s hand before he gets definitive on anything.
The executive order will further crystalize the city’s stance against participation in federal immigration raids. This action underscores the growing antagonism between local municipalities and the federal government. They’re having a hard time reconciling their very real, very opposing desires for immigration reform and enforcement.
The administration has sought access to a U.S. military base on the fringes of Chicago. This action would instantly demonstrate the depth of their commitment. Local leaders have pushed back fiercely against the stated actions. They say that such measures would undermine the delicate relationship between the communities and law enforcement.
As Johnson prepares to sign the executive order, all eyes are on convincing residents. He wants to ensure that their rights are protected from what most people consider to be federal overreach. This decision represents a watershed moment for Chicago as it goes head to head defending against abuse of federal overreach into local authority.