Johnson to appear before Congress to discuss Chicago's status as a sanctuary city

CHICAGO - Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson will appear before Congress next month to discuss the city’s status as a sanctuary city.

On Wednesday, Johnson's office confirmed that he will travel to Washington D.C. to participate in the House Oversight Committee’s hearing on March 5.

What we know:

Last month, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform sent a formal letter to City Hall, requesting Johnson’s participation in a public hearing on Capitol Hill.

The letter cited concerns about the impact of sanctuary policies in Chicago and three other cities—New York, Boston, and Denver. It claims such policies fail to comply with federal law and suggests, "Citizens of all four cities have suffered due to sanctuary policies."

READ MORE: Johnson summoned to testify before Congress on Chicago's sanctuary city policies

The backstory:

Chicago has been the target of recent ICE operations under President Donald Trump. On Sunday, ICE officials announced they had targeted approximately 300 individuals in Chicago as part of a larger effort that resulted in 956 arrests nationwide.

Mayor Johnson has urged residents to stay informed about their rights in light of the heightened enforcement actions.

What they're saying:

Johnson's office said he would be accompanied by other mayors.

"We thank Committee members for the upcoming conversation on this important issue, and for the opportunity for Mayor Johnson to represent Chicago alongside Mayors from Boston, Denver, and New York."

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer released the following statement: 

"Sanctuary mayors owe the American people an explanation for city policies that jeopardize public safety and violate federal immigration law by releasing dangerous criminal illegal aliens back onto the streets."