Defiant Mayor’s Call to Resist ICE Raids Sparks Outrage

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson speaks during DNC

Chicago officials reportedly expected a rise in workplace immigration raids as federal tactical teams prepared to deploy across several Democratic-led cities. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson urged residents to push back against the enforcement efforts linked to President Trump. Johnson encouraged peaceful protest and affirmed that police and city staff would protect First Amendment rights. Johnson's call for "all of Chicago to resist in this moment" has drawn sharp criticism on social media. Critics argue that Johnson's rhetoric incites violence against federal officers.

Mayor Brandon Johnson throws out a ceremonial first pitch

Johnson said, “I am counting on all of Chicago to resist in this moment. Because whatever particular vulnerable group is targeted today, another group will be next.”

Kwame Raoul, Attorney General from Illinois

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul condemned federal actions as unlawful and undemocratic, stressing the importance of working with local leaders to protect community safety.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul gives remarks during Governor’s Day

Raoul said, “The president’s decision to federalize and deploy California’s National Guard without the consent of California state leaders is unlawful, unconstitutional and undemocratic.”

Kwame Raoul speaks during a gun violence prevention rally

Raoul added, “The federal administration should be working with local leaders to keep everyone safe, not mobilizing the military against the American people.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson at SeatGeek Stadium

Tensions escalated with 17 arrests during an anti-ICE protest. The Chicago Police Department reaffirmed its stance against cooperating with federal immigration enforcement.

Protesters march for No Kings Protest

Chicago is home to an estimated 425,000 undocumented immigrants. Despite facing a budget shortfall of over $1 billion, the city has spent more than $600 million in public funds to support migrants since last year.

Protesters display a range of messages at the No Kings Rally

“No Kings” rallies organized by Indivisible Chicago and other local groups took place at Daley Plaza as part of a nationwide protest against perceived authoritarianism.

Sarah Bennett covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.