News
September 03, 2025
As Trump declares ‘we’re going in,’ Pritzker says ‘terror and cruelty is the point’
Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Tuesday he expects Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to employ the same aggressive strategies they used in Los Angeles earlier this summer after President Donald Trump said he will deploy the National Guard to Chicago.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has voiced strong concerns over President Donald Trump’s announcement that he intends to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, stating he anticipates a surge in aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. Pritzker's comments came on Tuesday, following Trump's declaration that "we're going in" to address crime rates in the city.
The Governor fears that the deployment will lead to tactics similar to those employed by ICE agents in Los Angeles earlier this summer. He characterized these tactics as representing "terror and cruelty," suggesting the administration's goal is to instill fear within immigrant communities.
Pritzker did not elaborate on the specific tactics he anticipates, but the reference to Los Angeles suggests concerns about increased raids, heightened scrutiny of individuals' immigration status, and potential for family separation. He emphasized the potential for these actions to disproportionately impact vulnerable communities and erode trust between residents and law enforcement.
The Governor’s remarks highlight a growing tension between state and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement. Pritzker has consistently advocated for policies that protect immigrant rights and has criticized the Trump administration's hardline stance on immigration.
The deployment of the National Guard to Chicago has been met with widespread criticism from local officials and community leaders who fear it will exacerbate existing tensions and further marginalize already vulnerable populations. Critics argue that a military presence is not the appropriate solution to address complex issues like crime and poverty, and that it could lead to increased instances of racial profiling and police brutality.
The situation remains fluid, and further details about the National Guard deployment, including its scope and duration, are still emerging. However, Pritzker's statement underscores the deep concerns held by many in Illinois about the potential impact of federal intervention on the state's immigrant communities. The Governor's focus is now on monitoring the situation closely and working with community organizations to provide support and resources to those who may be affected. He has pledged to defend the rights of all Illinois residents, regardless of their immigration status.
The Governor fears that the deployment will lead to tactics similar to those employed by ICE agents in Los Angeles earlier this summer. He characterized these tactics as representing "terror and cruelty," suggesting the administration's goal is to instill fear within immigrant communities.
Pritzker did not elaborate on the specific tactics he anticipates, but the reference to Los Angeles suggests concerns about increased raids, heightened scrutiny of individuals' immigration status, and potential for family separation. He emphasized the potential for these actions to disproportionately impact vulnerable communities and erode trust between residents and law enforcement.
The Governor’s remarks highlight a growing tension between state and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement. Pritzker has consistently advocated for policies that protect immigrant rights and has criticized the Trump administration's hardline stance on immigration.
The deployment of the National Guard to Chicago has been met with widespread criticism from local officials and community leaders who fear it will exacerbate existing tensions and further marginalize already vulnerable populations. Critics argue that a military presence is not the appropriate solution to address complex issues like crime and poverty, and that it could lead to increased instances of racial profiling and police brutality.
The situation remains fluid, and further details about the National Guard deployment, including its scope and duration, are still emerging. However, Pritzker's statement underscores the deep concerns held by many in Illinois about the potential impact of federal intervention on the state's immigrant communities. The Governor's focus is now on monitoring the situation closely and working with community organizations to provide support and resources to those who may be affected. He has pledged to defend the rights of all Illinois residents, regardless of their immigration status.
Category:
Politics