Tom Homan, former ICE director and Trump’s pick for incoming border czar, has declared war on sanctuary cities, starting with Chicago. Speaking at a holiday event, Homan didn’t mince words.
“Chicago’s in trouble because your mayor sucks and your governor sucks,” he said bluntly, referring to Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor J.B. Pritzker.
Homan vowed aggressive enforcement against undocumented migrants, particularly those with criminal records. He outlined a strategy that could lead to mass arrests.
“When they find that bad guy, he’s probably going to be with others,” Homan said. “Others that are not a priority because they’re not a criminal. But guess what? They’re going to be arrested too.”
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This tough stance is a direct response to Chicago’s sanctuary policies, which limit local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Homan suggested the city’s leadership had “forced him into this position.”
Federal Funding and Legal Fights
Homan hinted that federal funding might be withheld from sanctuary jurisdictions under a Trump administration. This echoes Trump’s previous efforts to pressure sanctuary cities, which faced legal challenges during his first term.
Illinois Governor Pritzker wasted no time pushing back, calling Homan’s proposals “illegal.” In a statement, Pritzker pledged to protect migrants and promised legal action if necessary.
“He does not have the authority to do the things he has talked about,” Pritzker said. “Being a border czar is not an official position.”
Homan fired back, emphasizing his commitment to enforcing immigration laws, regardless of political resistance.
Chicago’s Migrant Crisis
Since August 2022, Chicago has received over 51,000 migrants, with more than 36,000 bused from Texas as part of Governor Greg Abbott’s controversial relocation effort. The influx has overwhelmed city resources and sparked debates about federal versus local responsibilities.
Homan’s crackdown would put the Windy City on the front lines of a national immigration battle. Critics argue his approach could lead to family separations and increased tensions between federal and local governments. Homan acknowledged the possibility but deflected blame onto migrants themselves.
“My goal is to enforce the law,” he said. “If you put yourself in that position, it may happen. But it’s on you.”
Political Crossfire
The battle over sanctuary policies isn’t limited to Chicago. Homan also met with New York City Mayor Eric Adams to address the city’s escalating migrant crisis, which he called “the worst in the country.”
As Trump’s return to the White House looms, Homan’s plans signal an immediate clash with progressive cities like Chicago. The showdown underscores the deep divisions in America’s immigration policies and sets the stage for a turbulent start to Trump’s potential second term.
One thing is certain—Chicago is bracing for a fight.