Chicago Mayor Doubles Down on Sanctuary Policy Amid Deportations of Illegal Immigrants
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson reaffirmed his city’s sanctuary policies as the Trump administration intensifies its crackdown on illegal immigration, with Chicago identified as a primary target.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling revealed that more than 100 individuals have been arrested in the Chicago area as part of the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. In response, Johnson made it clear that Chicago will continue its stance as a sanctuary city.
“Regardless of who is in the White House, Chicago is a city that opens its arms to people from around the globe,” Mayor Johnson said. “We will continue to protect civil and human rights, and we welcome all individuals and families who want to work, live and thrive here in our beloved city. The Welcoming City Ordinance is a law, and it is the law of the land here in Chicago.”
He added, “We will uphold it, along with the complementary Illinois Trust Act to ensure that our immigrant communities are safe.”
When Trump took office, he signed an executive order directing federal officials to ensure that sanctuary cities that interfere with immigration enforcement do not receive federal funds. The order also authorized officials to “evaluate and undertake any lawful actions” against jurisdictions obstructing federal operations. Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, has repeatedly criticized Chicago’s policies, accusing the city of violating federal law by shielding illegal immigrants.
On Monday, the chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee sent a letter to Johnson and other mayors requesting internal documentation regarding their sanctuary policies. The letter also asked Johnson to testify before the committee in February.
“Sanctuary jurisdictions and their misguided and obstructionist policies hinder the ability of federal law enforcement officers to effectuate safe arrests and remove dangerous criminals from American communities, making Americans less safe,” the letter stated.
Johnson has not confirmed if he would testify, and deferred questions to his corporation counsel, according to ABC 7 Chicago.
“We did receive an invitation from the Oversight Committee, and it is under legal review. So, we are not able to respond directly to your question in terms of whether he will go,” said Chicago Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry. “It would be premature to talk about going until such time that we properly digested all the legal issues.”
