National Guard Troops Deployed to Chicago Amid Immigration Tensions

CHICAGO, IL – Approximately 500 National Guard troops were deployed near Chicago on Wednesday following President Donald Trump’s orders, despite strong objections from local officials.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker described the move as unnecessary and provocative, criticizing the militarization of the city. In response, Trump called for the jailing of both officials, claiming they failed to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel.

The National Guard reported that around 200 soldiers from Texas and 300 from Illinois are now stationed in the area, prepared to safeguard federal personnel and property, particularly ICE agents operating within the city.

While the Trump administration condemned recent protests as lawless and violent, many demonstrations in cities like Chicago have remained peaceful. Hundreds marched downtown on Wednesday protesting the National Guard’s presence, echoing slogans that defended individuals previously detained by immigration agents.

Johnson signed an executive order on Monday establishing an “ICE Free Zone,” aimed at preventing federal agents from using city resources in their operations.

Pritzker referred to Trump’s call for arrests as a step toward authoritarianism, labeling the president’s rhetoric as alarming. “What else is left on the path to full-blown authoritarianism?” he questioned.

The deployment comes amid ongoing court challenges against the National Guard’s presence. A federal judge is set to hear arguments on whether the troops should be allowed to remain in the city. Meanwhile, Chicago’s situation has prompted heightened scrutiny and tension as protests continue over federal immigration enforcement.

“Sending in federal agents was a pretext to the National Guard,” Johnson stated, emphasizing his resistance to federal intervention. Meanwhile, Trump’s administration has indicated plans to extend troop deployments to other cities despite local opposition.

As legal battles ensue, the impacts of the National Guard’s presence are felt citywide, affecting events and community dynamics amid rising immigration tensions.