Illinois Gov Pritzker Criticizes Noem Amid ICE Operation Tensions Chicago

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has vehemently criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics in Chicago, condemning raids that have targeted minority communities and caused fear among residents. Pritzker disputed Noem's claim that Chicagoans applaud ICE actions, stating that people are instead booing and protesting against the raids, which often involve aggressive measures such as breaking down doors and detaining elderly and children for extended periods. During Noem's visit to an ICE facility near Chicago, protests escalated, and Pritzker called for a public Q&A with Noem, accusing her of lacking transparency and accountability amid increased ICE operations under the Trump administration's "Operation Midway Blitz." The administration has deployed National Guard troops and active-duty military personnel to assist ICE, leading to over 800 arrests in Illinois, which has further fueled tensions. Pritzker demands that federal enforcement focus solely on violent criminals rather than indiscriminately targeting brown and black residents, describing the federal presence as making Chicago a "war zone." The governor also criticized Noem for avoiding press conferences and public scrutiny regarding the federal immigration crackdown in Illinois.