Chicago Pauses CityKey Online Applications After ICE Subpoena

Chicago's City Clerk Anna Valencia has paused online applications for the CityKey municipal ID program after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a subpoena seeking personal information of applicants from the past three years. The CityKey ID, which serves vulnerable populations including undocumented residents and those unable to obtain other IDs, remains available through in-person applications, where no records are retained by the city. Valencia described the decision as necessary to protect residents amid what she called the federal government's overreach, a stance supported by Mayor Brandon Johnson who condemned the subpoena as wrong. The city's legal counsel stated the city has declined to comply with the administrative subpoena citing privacy concerns and the risk of exposing sensitive groups, and indicated they would respond similarly if ICE sought a court order. The CityKey program, authorized in 2017 and expanded to online applications in late 2024, also functions as a Ventra card, library card, and prescription discount card, providing multiple city services to applicants. City officials emphasize their commitment to protecting applicant data and standing up for the rights of all Chicagoans against federal demands.