Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson made a strong promise on Tuesday that local police will never help ICE. He made the remarks during a press conference. He said the city will not set up perimeters around schools for ICE agents. He rejected any cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

He added that Chicago passed a welcoming ordinance. He said local police must focus on public safety and not federal immigration priorities. He said this power lies with federal authorities. He said the city departments had been briefed by legal counsel.

No Cooperation With ICE

In pushing back, he blamed the Trump administration for creating fear among working families. He said vulnerable people need city support and not division. He has a history of strong criticism of ICE. He urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to speak against ICE operations. He also encouraged Chicagoans to stand up to ICE presence in the city.

The mayor noted that over 51,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since August 2022. He said the city is open and supportive to newcomers. He said this policy strengthens trust between residents and police.

“Our Local Police Department Will Not Ever Cooperate With ICE, Whatever Their Constitutional Authority Is.” - Brandon Johnson

Local opponents, including the White House and ICE supporters, warned that the stance may embolden illegal immigration. They cited a rise in aggression against ICE agents. They called for firmer action to protect federal officers.

Chicago’s sanctuary policy remains one of the strongest in the country. This new vow reinforces the city’s refusal to enforce federal immigration orders. It signals that Chicago will remain a safe place for undocumented residents.