The Trump administration on Monday launched a new immigration enforcement operation in Chicago, saying the latest federal crackdown in a U.S. city would target what they call the worst of the worst criminals.
The Department of Homeland Security announced Operation Midway Blitz, following President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to deploy National Guard troops to Illinois. The president has recently clashed with Democratic Governor J.B. Pritzker on social media.
In a statement, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused the governor and what she called sanctuary politicians of releasing dangerous individuals onto the streets of Chicago — including alleged gang members, rapists, kidnappers, and drug traffickers. She said this has made the city a magnet for criminals.
Governor Pritzker responded on X, dismissing the claims. He wrote:
This operation isn’t about fighting crime — it’s about fear. The Trump administration coordinated nothing with local authorities. They’re focused on scaring Illinoisians.
The DHS release included names, photos, and criminal records of 11 undocumented immigrants it claims were previously released and are now being pursued for arrest.
Having already carried out controversial troop deployments and deportation raids in Washington and Los Angeles, Trump has now turned his attention to Chicago — calling it a hell-hole overrun with gun violence.
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois condemned the operation, saying:
These raids don’t make us safer. They’re a waste of money, they fuel fear, and they’re just another failed attempt to distract the public.
Durbin also noted that many of those targeted are hardworking immigrants with no criminal convictions, accusing the Trump administration of focusing on optics over effective policy.
On Monday, Trump posted a string of anti-immigrant memes and cable news clips, claiming:
This marked a shift in tone after earlier threats to unleash the military — threats that sparked large protests across Chicago over the weekend.
In one particularly inflammatory post, the president shared what appears to be there
“I love the smell of deportations in the morning”
A play on the infamous line about napalm.
He also wrote on Truth Social Chicago about to find out why it’s called the Department of WAR.
Governor Pritzker rebuked the president’s comments sharply, saying:
“This is not a joke. This is not normal. Illinois won’t be intimidated by a wannabe dictator.”
He also posted legal advice for residents about how to handle ICE raids — urging people to assert their rights, deny entry without a valid warrant, and be vocal in their opposition.
Follow us on all social media platforms @dailyquery for news and analyses around the globe.
