The Trump administration is preparing to launch an immigration crackdown in Chicago, potentially starting as early as September 5. This operation aims to increase federal law enforcement presence in major cities run by Democrats. The initiative is expected to last about 30 days, according to a Department of Homeland Security official.

Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, has a significant immigrant population. The city and the state of Illinois have established strong policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This has often led to tensions between local officials and the Trump administration, which is pursuing a mass deportation agenda.

Federal officials have indicated that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection, and other agencies will participate in the operation. The administration has also requested the use of Naval Station Great Lakes, located north of Chicago, to support these efforts. Unlike recent federal policing actions in Washington, D.C., this operation will not involve the National Guard or military forces and will focus solely on immigration enforcement.

Resistance from local Democratic leaders is anticipated. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has expressed opposition to military intervention in crime fighting. He stated, "We don’t appreciate when they mistreat our residents, many of whom have been here for decades." Pritzker criticized the administration's tactics, saying, "Men with masks are grabbing people off the streets and taking them away. That’s just shameful."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has also voiced concerns about the planned operation. He described it as "deeply concerning" and announced a "Family Preparedness Campaign" to help residents prepare for potential separations. This initiative includes guidance on discussing family matters, gathering important documents, and seeking assistance from advocacy groups.

Johnson stated, "We reject any attempts to put Chicagoans in danger as a means of furthering the president’s political ends." He emphasized that if ICE conducts operations in the city, all departments will be ready to inform residents of their rights.

The Department of Homeland Security recently reported that it has made 5,000 immigration arrests in the Los Angeles area since launching a crackdown there on June 6. This operation has been characterized by swift actions from heavily armed agents in unmarked vehicles, often targeting locations like Home Depots and car washes.

Secretary Kristi Noem warned, "Make no mistake: If you are here illegally, we will find you, arrest you and send you back. This is just the beginning." The administration remains undeterred by a temporary court order in Los Angeles that prohibits racial profiling, which it has challenged in the Supreme Court.