CHICAGO (AP) — The sight of armed, camouflaged and masked Border Patrol agents making arrests near iconic downtown Chicago landmarks has heightened fears regarding federal interventions under the Trump administration. As cities like Memphis, Tennessee, and Portland, Oregon, brace for increased federal oversight, Chicago's residents express outrage at this escalation in immigration enforcement.
Chicago Alderman Brandon Reilly labeled the federal presence a “photo opp” for President Trump, saying it "looks un-American." Trump has justified the deployment of federal agents by citing rising crime rates and alleged lax immigration policies, referring to cities like Chicago and Portland in dire terms.
While agent Gregory Bovino justified actions stating they will target “anyone who is here illegally,” community members fear increased racial profiling following the Supreme Court's lifting of restrictions on immigration patrols that allowed stops based on race or appearance.
Many activists argue this constitutes a major escalation, with reports of a Latino family being apprehended by federal agents near the “Cloud Gate” sculpture, known as “The Bean.” U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia expressed concern over the targeting of specific communities, reinforcing fears of discrimination.
As agents patrolled downtown, citizens and activists followed suit, protesting against federal enforcement tactics. Meanwhile, Portland figures have initiated legal actions against the deployment of National Guard troops, criticizing the militarization of communities.
In Memphis, residents remain alert as they anticipate federal agents expected to bolster local law enforcement amid rising crime concerns.
