As tensions escalate between the federal government and Chicago’s leadership over the deportation of migrants with criminal backgrounds, many city residents are calling for tougher immigration enforcement, echoing the sentiments of former President Donald Trump.
Vashon Tuncle, a Chicagoan, voiced his concerns during an appearance on a news program, expressing that many locals feel neglected by their elected officials. “The people of Chicago support Trump. The election results showed it, and we wanted him to visit our city,” Tuncle stated.
He claims to represent a growing group of Chicago residents who feel let down by officials like Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson. Both leaders oppose federal deportation efforts on human rights grounds, but Tuncle argues they are failing in their responsibility to protect the people of Chicago. “Brandon Johnson swore to protect the people of Chicago. J.B. Pritzker took an oath to safeguard the residents of Illinois,” he said. “Yet they are more focused on protecting undocumented immigrants who are contributing to crime and drug issues in our city.”
The issue of immigration is becoming increasingly contentious in Chicago. Federal “border czar” Tom Homan has made clear his intention to use Chicago as a focal point for deportation actions. His recent visit led to the apprehension of an individual with a long criminal history.
“I can’t understand why this person is still in our city in 2025,” Tuncle remarked.
Mayor Johnson has publicly opposed federal immigration enforcement, asserting Chicago’s identity as a sanctuary city. “I am committed to making clear that Chicago is a welcoming city, regardless of who occupies the White House,” Johnson stated in a press conference. “Our local police will not act as federal agents; there’s a necessary separation of powers.”
Nonetheless, not all city leaders agree with the mayor’s stance. Alderman Ray Lopez criticized Johnson for catering to far-left interests while ignoring the concerns of Black and Latino communities. “He is prioritizing a political agenda over the safety and welfare of our citizens,” Lopez claimed.
Lopez has proposed that local law enforcement collaborate with ICE to detain migrants with criminal records, a measure that was ultimately blocked by the city council.
Tuncle insists that many Chicago residents share his frustrations. “People are tired of seeing illegal immigrants coming into our neighborhoods with crime and drugs,” he noted. “They appreciate efforts from leaders like Tom Homan to clean things up.”
Since August 2022, Chicago has seen an influx of over 50,000 migrants, which has cost the city more than half a billion dollars in aid for housing and healthcare services. Amid these developments, Tuncle remains hopeful about future federal immigration policies in Chicago, especially with Pam Bondi’s confirmation as the new U.S. Attorney General.
“I’m optimistic about Pam Bondi being in charge; it feels like there will be real accountability for those who oppose federal law,” he said.
In a significant move, the Department of Justice has initiated a federal lawsuit against Governor Pritzker, Mayor Johnson, and the city of Chicago for allegedly obstructing federal immigration laws and failing to cooperate with federal authorities.
The lawsuit argues that local laws intentionally hinder efforts to enforce federal immigration regulations, which is necessary to ensure the safety of all Americans.
As the situation develops, Chicago remains split over immigration policy, with a clear divide between residents advocating for stricter enforcement and city leaders committed to maintaining the sanctuary status.
