Chicago residents are expressing frustration with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s commitment to shielding undocumented migrants from federal immigration crackdowns. Many are concerned about safety and strained resources.
This comes after border czar Tom Homan warned Chicago would be “ground zero” for immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans.
Mayor Johnson remains firm in his stance, vowing to uphold Chicago’s sanctuary city policies.
“I find it unconscionable that this administration would attempt to create not just division but fear within our public schools,” Johnson said, referencing potential federal raids. He directed city departments to “stand firm” under the Illinois Trust Act, which blocks local police from aiding federal immigration enforcement.
However, residents argue the city’s focus is misplaced. P Rae Easley, host of “Black Excellence Hour,” voiced her frustrations on “Fox & Friends First.”
“We understand that we are in the middle of an invasion,” Easley said. “Every single person who came across that border came with an invoice on their back for the Chicago taxpayer.”
The financial strain is a hot-button issue. Last December, Chicago faced backlash after spending over half a billion dollars to house migrants under the New Arrivals Mission. Johnson later revealed a billion-dollar budget shortfall, sparking heated discussions at community meetings.
“I’ve got a great idea for the budget,” one resident said at a meeting. “Let’s start by cutting off illegals from getting free housing, free schooling, and free food.”
Meanwhile, federal immigration enforcement is ramping up. During Trump’s presidency, ICE arrested over 460 individuals in the first days of a sweep targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records, including violent offenses.
Easley supports these efforts, saying they’re critical for safety. “Nobody else gets to be shielded from federal crimes, and neither do they,” she said. “We need them to go back where they belong so we can reallocate tax funds to our citizens.”
In response to Johnson’s policies, the Trump administration has directed federal prosecutors to investigate state and local officials obstructing deportations. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove identified transnational criminal organizations as a major threat to Americans.
Johnson, however, remains steadfast. “Chicago stands strong: regardless of the circumstances, our commitment to protecting and supporting this city remains unwavering,” he wrote on X.
But residents like Easley argue the city’s priorities are out of touch. “We need the federal government here,” she said. “It’s unfair we pay federal taxes but don’t get federal help because our mayor’s political goals don’t align with the people.”
President Trump has long criticized sanctuary cities like Chicago. “We’re trying to get rid of them. A lot of people in those communities don’t want them,” Trump said on Fox’s Hannity.
Congress is also acting on Trump’s immigration agenda. This week, the House passed the Laken Riley Act, mandating detention for undocumented immigrants accused of theft or violent crimes.
For Easley and others, the solution is clear. “We care more about the children of Chicago than we do the children of the invaders,” she said.