North Chicago – Today, thousands turned out in protest of the expanded Immigration And Custom Enforcement raids being expanded in Chicago and surrounding areas. Naval Station Great Lakes is being used as a staging and support facility for those operations.
President Trump vowed to step up ICE raids which he says is to reduce crime rates in the city. He has also threatened to send National Guard troops, though it is unclear if he actually has the authority to do so. National Guard troops have no police training or arrest powers.
Weeks ago, Secretary Kristi Noem applied for and received approval to use the Naval facility located in North Chicago. It is estimated 300 ICE agents are based there and will initiate raids as early as Sunday morning. It is also believed the expanded ICE raids are being timed by the White House to coincide with Latino events and festivals which take place in September.
Local leaders and the Governor are opposed to Trump’s action. He and his administration cut funding for anti crime initiatives which have proved to be very effective.
