Border Patrol Expansion: Chicago Braces for Increased Immigration Crackdown

Tue Sep 16 2025 21:26:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Border Patrol agent Gregory Bovino and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem have arrived in Chicago, signaling an aggressive expansion of immigration enforcement in the city. This comes amidst concerns from local leaders and immigrant communities about the potential impacts of federal operations.

Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol agent known for his aggressive enforcement tactics, has moved to Chicago to lead operations aimed at increasing immigration enforcement, which has already resulted in a noted increase in ICE presence in the city. Local officials and immigrant advocates express deep concerns about the impact of these actions, especially as they coincide with significant cultural celebrations. The federal interference reportedly contradicts community calls for support rather than enforcement, as Chicago's immigrant communities face escalating fear and unrest.

CHICAGO — In a controversial move, Border Patrol agent Gregory Bovino announced his arrival in Chicago, continuing the federally-authorized immigration crackdown that has already sparked significant protests and concern in Los Angeles.

In a recent post on X, Bovino shared footage of immigration enforcement vehicles in downtown Chicago, stating, “Operation At Large is here to continue the mission we started in Los Angeles,” hinting at a similar enforcement strategy that previously led to thousands of arrests.

President Donald Trump has promised an increase in deportations in Chicago amid resistance from local leaders and residents. As part of this escalation, the state is reportedly preparing for the deployment of National Guard troops to assist federal forces.

Recent reports indicate an uptick in ICE activity in Chicago, alarming community advocates who argue that such measures disproportionately affect immigrant populations. This heightened enforcement coincides with Mexican Independence Day celebrations, leading many events to be canceled or postponed due to fear of raids.

“We’ve seen a definite increase in the visible presence of immigration officers in our neighborhoods,” said a local advocate. “This is not just a public safety issue; it’s an emotional and psychological crisis for many.”

Neither the scope nor specific focus of the new operations led by Bovino was elaborated upon, raising further concerns about transparency from federal authorities.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has criticized the federal intervention, expressing that it exacerbates existing fears within communities. He emphasized that the federal focus seems misaligned with the needs of Chicagoans and that there should be instead an effort to integrate and support immigrant residents.

With the state’s immigrant communities feeling increasingly vulnerable, the agency's actions are feared to create an environment of impending raids and enforced separations, undermining the very fabric of Chicago’s diverse society.

On social media, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem echoed Bovino's sentiments, indicating that their work in Chicago 'is just beginning' and reaffirming the administration's commitment to strict immigration enforcement measures.

The situation continues to evolve as immigration advocacy groups mobilize to respond to what they describe as a federal overreach that contradicts the welcoming spirit of Chicago.