Amidst escalating tensions between federal authorities and Chicago officials regarding the deportation of migrants with criminal backgrounds, a segment of Chicago residents is expressing support for stricter immigration policies, echoing those advocated by former President Donald Trump.
Chicagoan Vashon Tuncle voiced his community's concerns on "The Ingraham Angle," claiming many feel neglected by local and state officials. He asserted strong support for Trump within his community and expressed a desire for increased federal presence.
Tuncle positions himself as a representative for a growing number of Chicagoans who feel disregarded by Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson. He criticizes their opposition to federal deportation efforts, arguing that their focus on human rights overlooks the safety and security of Chicago residents. He contends they have broken their oaths to protect the citizens of Chicago and Illinois by prioritizing the well-being of undocumented immigrants, whom he accuses of contributing to drug-related issues and crime.
The issue of immigration has reached a boiling point in Chicago, with former ICE Director Tom Homan declaring the city a central focus for deportation efforts. Homan's recent visit resulted in the deportation of an individual with a lengthy criminal record dating back to the Obama administration, a case Tuncle highlighted as an example of delayed action.
Mayor Brandon Johnson has reaffirmed Chicago's sanctuary city status and strongly opposed federal intervention. He emphasized that Chicago police will not act as federal agents, citing a separation of powers. However, this stance has drawn criticism from some city officials, such as Alderman Ray Lopez, who accuses Johnson of prioritizing the views of a select group of "hyper-liberal White progressives" while neglecting the concerns of Black, Latino, and undocumented communities.
Lopez has proposed allowing local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in detaining migrants with criminal records, a measure rejected by the city council. Tuncle believes Johnson's policies are out of touch with the sentiments of many Chicagoans, who he says are increasingly frustrated with the perceived negative impacts of undocumented immigration.
Since August 2022, Chicago has received over 50,000 migrants, straining city resources. The "New Arrivals Mission," providing housing, healthcare, and other services, has incurred costs exceeding half a billion dollars.
Tuncle expressed optimism regarding future immigration enforcement, particularly with Pam Bondi's confirmation as U.S. Attorney General. The Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Illinois, Chicago, Governor Pritzker, and Mayor Johnson, accusing them of obstructing federal immigration law and hindering interagency cooperation. Bondi has also moved to withhold federal funding from sanctuary cities.
The legal battle underscores the deep divisions in Chicago regarding immigration policy, with residents like Tuncle pushing for stricter enforcement while city leaders maintain their commitment to sanctuary city status.
