CHICAGO (AP) — Tensions rise in Chicago as Border Patrol agent Gregory Bovino, known for spearheading the controversial immigration enforcement operation in Los Angeles, announces his team's arrival in the city. In a post on social media platform X, he declared, Well, Chicago, we’ve arrived! and shared footage of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and vehicles patrolling the downtown streets.
President Donald Trump has hinted at a major increase in deportations and the presence of National Guard troops in response to local objections. Recent reports indicate a surge in immigration enforcement activities, raising alarms among advocates and residents who fear the impact on Chicago's immigrant communities.
Activists have noted an uptick in ICE operations in recent weeks, leading to increased anxiety during cultural celebrations such as Mexican Independence Day, which has seen cancellations and delays due to fears of raids. Local authorities, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, have expressed unease regarding the federal crackdown.
The specifics of Operation At Large and its scope have yet to be clarified by officials, but the announcement has already intensified worries among immigrant groups who fear further complications in their already precarious situations. Chicago's immigrant community remains apprehensive as federal officials promise not to back down on their enforcement strategies.
As the city braces for the arrival of Operation At Large, calls for a balanced approach to immigration enforcement versus community safety are growing louder. Local leaders are urging for a dialogue to address the worries of the community while ensuring public safety.
