Chicago mayor reiterates opposition to Trump deportation plan

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, on Sunday, doubled down on his vow to oppose President Donald Trump's sweeping reform aimed at removing dangerous undocumented immigrants accused of crimes from the U.S.

The backstory:

In preparation for a change in federal administration, the mayor’s office has assured the city would continue to comply with the 2017 Illinois Trust Act, which prohibits local law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement.

On Sunday, his opposition continued to ring loud and clear.

"Chicago stands strong: regardless of the circumstances, our commitment to protecting and supporting this city remains unwavering," Johnson wrote in a social media post. "We will continue to fight for the justice and safety of all who call this place home."

Johnson takes aim at Trump

What they're saying:

The mayor also shared comments he made back in November, after Trump won the election.

In a nearly minute and ten second clip, Johnson said he and other city officials were going to defend the people of Chicago, telling those in attendance Trump’s threats are not just toward new arrivals and undocumented families, but also Black families.

He also accused Trump of wanting to destroy public education and "leveling opportunities for families who are descendants of slaves."

"We’re going to stand up, and we’re going to protect undocumented individuals," Johnson said. "We’re going to protect Black folks, brown folks, Asian folks… Listen, the anti-sentiment that exists in this political space is unconscionable and it’s dangerous.

"Whether it’s anti-Black or antisemitic, we’re going to protect people, and we’re going to invest in people," Johnson continued. "The city of Chicago will be better, stronger and safer despite who’s in the White House."

Johnson’s office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment on the matter.

Migrants in Chicago

By the numbers:

Here's a look at Chicago's migrant population and the city's spending:

  • More than 20,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since August 2022.
  • The city has spent approximately $574.5 million on sheltering migrants during this period.
  • Chicago residents previously opposed a $60 million property tax increase proposed to help address a $1 billion budget shortfall by the end of 2024.

Chicago ICE guidance

What's next:

With Trump's return to the Oval Office on Monday, Johnson has promised that Chicago will continue to uphold the Illinois Trust Act and resist federal immigration enforcement efforts. City agencies are prepared to follow Johnson’s guidelines on handling ICE interactions, emphasizing a legal and cautious approach.

Johnson’s guidelines advise, "Contact your agency or department’s designated attorney or general counsel for further guidance. Contact the highest ranking official or designated supervisor onsite and do not take any action until that person arrives." 

The guidance says to demand copies of warrants, not to consent to ICE entering "any private or ‘sensitive’ locations," but not to interfere with any search, even if refused. There are further recommendations, including taking notes and keeping contemporaneous written records.

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