Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an executive order limiting cooperation with federal agents and National Guard troops after President Donald Trump threatened to send them to Illinois.
Brandon Johnson Moves to Block ‘Federal Overreach’
Brandon Johnson announced the executive order on Saturday, saying it was needed to protect Chicago from what he called “federal overreach.”
At a press conference, Johnson stated: “We must take immediate, drastic action to protect our people.”
He added that the city’s legal team has been instructed to use “every legal mechanism” to challenge any federal intervention. According to Johnson, Chicago is prepared to take the fight to court if necessary.
What Johnson’s Executive Order Does
The order sets clear boundaries on the Chicago Police Department’s role in federal or military operations. It prohibits city officers from:
- Joining military patrols or checkpoints
- Assisting in civil immigration enforcement
- Covering their faces or hiding official police logos on uniforms
“This order affirms that the Chicago Police Department will not collaborate with military personnel on patrols or checkpoints,” Johnson said. “Our officers are focused on reducing crime, not being deputized for the president’s agenda.”
Trump Slams Illinois Leadership After Chicago Shootings
The move comes after Trump criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, calling him “weak and pathetic” for rejecting federal help following a violent weekend in Chicago that left six people dead and 24 others injured.
Trump warned that if crime continues to rise, federal intervention could follow, echoing similar moves in Washington DC and threats to other cities such as Baltimore.
National Guard Deployment Threat Looms
Although Trump has not officially announced troop deployment to Chicago, reports suggest the Pentagon is preparing for possible federal action.
According to Johnson, “credible reports” indicate that militarized immigration enforcement or National Guard troops could arrive within days.
“We may see militarized immigration enforcement, National Guard troops, or even armed vehicles on our streets,” Johnson said.
White House and Allies Respond
The White House dismissed Johnson’s executive order. Press Secretary Abigail Jackson accused the mayor of “Trump derangement syndrome”, saying Democrats should focus on fighting crime instead of opposing the president.
Former ICE Director Tom Homan told Fox News that Chicago is a “priority target” for enforcement because it is a sanctuary city. “Get out of the way, because we’re going to do it,” he said.
Vice President JD Vance also weighed in during an event in Wisconsin: “Why are they angrier about Donald Trump offering help than they are about carjackings and murders in their streets?”
