Governor JB Pritzker stated on Tuesday that he believes the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts in Chicago may target around 2,000 individuals. This estimate comes from local law enforcement sources, although the Chicago Police Department and other officials have not confirmed the numbers. It remains unclear whether these individuals are part of Trump’s plan targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions or those with existing deportation orders. Despite weeks of preparation and heightened fear among immigrant communities, no reports of immigration raids in Chicago emerged on Tuesday.
Reports suggested the raids would begin Tuesday morning, as indicated by the Wall Street Journal on Friday. However, former Trump “border czar” Tom Homan later mentioned that federal authorities were reconsidering the plan after leaked details. Governor Pritzker criticized the lack of communication from federal officials and emphasized the legal basis for deporting undocumented immigrants convicted of violent crimes, stating he does not want such individuals in Illinois.
Governor Pritzker highlighted the fear caused by Trump’s deportation plans, which has significantly impacted Chicago’s immigrant neighborhoods. During a visit to areas like Pilsen and Little Village, he observed empty businesses as people stayed away due to fear of raids. He explained that even documented immigrants and U.S. citizens with undocumented relatives are deeply concerned. Pritzker called out the Trump administration for creating this climate of fear, describing it as harmful and unnecessary.
In an interview with CNN, Tom Homan reaffirmed that the focus of the raids is on undocumented immigrants with criminal records. He added that sanctuary cities complicate efforts by limiting access to such individuals in jails, forcing officers to locate them in communities. Homan acknowledged that collateral arrests are likely, as others without legal status may be apprehended alongside targeted individuals. Despite Homan’s earlier comments suggesting Chicago as a focal point, he later attempted to downplay the city’s significance in the plan.
The situation has drawn comparisons to past campaigns against immigrants and has heightened tensions in Chicago’s immigrant communities. Governor Pritzker and others continue to call for clarity and humane approaches to immigration enforcement, emphasizing the need for fairness and community safety.
