Illinois Gov Pritzker Accuses Federal Agents of Creating Chicago War Zone Amid Immigration Enforcement

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has strongly criticized President Trump's administration for escalating tensions in Chicago through aggressive federal immigration enforcement efforts, including raids and the deployment of federal agents. Pritzker described the city as being turned into a "war zone" by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rather than by protesters, blaming federal actions such as a late-night Border Patrol raid where residents were restrained with zip ties. Despite his opposition, President Trump ordered the deployment of 300 National Guard members to Illinois, prompting legal and political conflict over the federalization of state troops. Pritzker accused the Trump administration of wanting "mayhem on the ground" to justify sending in more military forces, arguing that local agencies and federal civilian law enforcement like the FBI should be allowed to handle the situation. The federal government defended its actions as targeting violent criminals and gang members, while Pritzker and local officials condemned the tactics as heavy-handed and counterproductive, leading to violent clashes and heightened unrest. The conflict highlights deep divisions over law enforcement strategies and the use of military resources in managing urban crime and immigration enforcement.