Chicago City Wire

One of the contentious policies under Mayor Brandon Johnson is his prioritization of immigrants over Chicago citizens, a move resulting in a 6.6 percent approval rating. His stance was once again highlighted when the Trump administration sued him, posing risks of significant federal funding cuts.

Donald Trump announced efforts to withdraw federal support from sanctuary cities like Chicago, branding them as “Death Traps.” In response, Johnson’s spokesperson, Cassio Mendoza, asserted, “Chicago complies with all federal and state laws,” despite sanctuary policies that limit federal cooperation on immigration.

The potential funding shortfall is substantial. Federal funds in Johnson’s 2025 budget amount to $2.72 billion. Chicago Public Schools could lose $1.3 billion, and the CTA’s Red Line Extension might forfeit $1.9 billion.

Johnson was resolute, stating, “We’re gonna sue... We’re not going to be intimidated.” However, later clarification suggested no specific legal moves were planned. Previously, Johnson championed Chicago’s sanctuary stance as one of “compassion” and “public safety.” Yet, detractors argue this approach has exacerbated issues related to crime and resource allocation within the city.

The Trump administration is not only challenging local policies but personally suing Johnson alongside Governor Pritzker and Toni Preckwinkle over limitations on police cooperation with deportations. The legal atmosphere now leans conservative in the judiciary, potentially favoring Trump’s case where past efforts failed.

Toni Preckwinkle spoke against Trump’s actions, labeling them “assaults” on diverse communities. However, critics suggest that Chicago’s sanctuary policies place undocumented migrants at an advantage over legal residents.

Public dissatisfaction grows as neighborhoods reportedly suffer from negligence in favor of migrant services, contradicting Johnson’s electoral promises. Congressional Republicans are capitalizing on the issue. Representative James Comer invited Pritzker to discuss Illinois' sanctuary policies, accusing the state of obstructing federal enforcement.

Pritzker dismissed the hearings as partisan, although concerns about law enforcement and public safety are raised. The looming lawsuit questions the compliance of local laws with federal regulations, endangering billions in aid and political credibility.

Despite the controversy, Johnson hopes his coalition can withstand the pressures; however, declining support suggests challenges ahead. Trump’s actions, though provocative, bring potential consequences for sanctuary policies that Johnson champions.

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