Photo: AFP
Tensions are escalating between the Trump administration and Illinois officials following a surge of immigration raids and the deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago, per the New York Times.
Last month, the Trump administration launched "Operation Midway Blitz" as part of an effort to target undocumented immigrants in Chicago.
The operation has escalated to federal agents conducting midnight raids in local neighborhoods, using helicopters, flashbang grenades, and other military-style tactics. During a September 30 raid, doors were blasted open, apartments were ransacked, and families were detained without warrants in Chicago's South Shore neighborhood. Eyewitnesses and civil rights groups reported that children as young as five were zip-tied, separated from parents, and left outside in the cold.
ICE has also reportedly deployed tear gas and pepper balls during protests and enforcement actions against demonstrators, journalists, and even local police.
In another "Operation Midway Blitz" effort, Trump federalized the Illinois National Guard and ordered 300 troops to Chicago. Another 400 troops from the Texas National Guard are set to be deployed.
The White House said the deployment is necessary to “protect federal property” and support ICE operations amid rising “unrest.” The orders authorize troops to operate in Chicago for up to 60 days, with the potential for extension.
Critics argue that there is no emergency to justify military presence and that the troops are being used to intimidate local leaders and community members.
On Friday (October 3), Illinois and the City of Chicago filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration to block the troop deployment. The lawsuit, which names Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as defendants, argues that the federal government is infringing on Illinois' constitutional right to control its own Guard. According to the lawsuit, the administration has also failed to prove that Illinois is unable to enforce the law or is facing insurrection.
A federal judge declined to issue an emergency block on the deployment, giving the Trump administration time to respond. The legal battle in Illinois remains ongoing.
In response to the federal presence, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued an executive order establishing ICE-Free Zones, banning agents from operating on any city property without a warrant. City departments, including police, have also been ordered not to assist federal agents or National Guard troops. According to reports, ICE officials have been making fake 911 calls to drain police resources.
Experts warn that if courts uphold this deployment, it could set a dangerous precedent, allowing presidents to override state authority and militarize immigration enforcement during times of political tension.
As court hearings proceed, Chicago residents face helicopters in the sky, troops in the streets, and raids in their neighborhoods.
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