Chicago aldermen expressed their anxieties regarding Mayor Brandon Johnson's approach to the city's immigration challenges and his reaction to recent ICE operations in discussions with Fox News Digital.
Several aldermen questioned whether Johnson and city officials are truly attentive to the public's viewpoint on this matter. Alderman Nick Sposato frankly stated his belief that the mayor, despite being a personal friend, is not listening to the majority of constituents who, in Sposato's view, oppose the protection of individuals with criminal records within the city, state, and country.
Mounting frustration among Chicago residents over Johnson's management of the migrant influx has become increasingly evident in recent years, particularly during city council meetings. Residents have voiced strong disapproval of a proposed tax increase aimed at addressing the city's budget deficit while substantial funds are allocated to migrant shelters.
The image depicts Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's critical stance towards recent ICE operations. (Getty Images)
Despite public criticism, Mayor Johnson has openly condemned ICE and the Trump administration's immigration enforcement actions. Alderman Ray Lopez contended that Johnson prioritizes the opinions of a select group of "hyper-liberal White progressives" over the concerns of African-Americans, Latinos, and undocumented Mexicans who are most affected by the policies. Lopez criticized the mayor for "playing chicken" with the lives of these vulnerable populations.
Recently, the Chicago city council rejected Alderman Lopez's proposal to empower local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in detaining migrants with criminal histories.
The photograph shows Chicago residents expressing their discontent with Mayor Brandon Johnson's handling of the migrant situation. (Fox News)
Alderman Brian Hopkins questioned the mayor's rationale for protecting non-citizens who commit serious crimes, suggesting that Johnson's strong advocacy for human rights, regardless of citizenship status, may be influencing his decisions.
Coinciding with a recent immigration enforcement operation led by Trump's border czar Tom Homan, two undocumented immigrants were charged with the murder of a 63-year-old man in Chicago. Alderman Lopez highlighted the presence of Venezuelan gangs in the city, emphasizing the urgent need to address the escalating violence and collaborate with federal partners to remove these "bad actors."
Migrants residing at the Chicago Police Department's 15th District. (Joshua Lott/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Mayor Johnson's office has not yet provided a response to requests for comment.
