The deployment of the Texas National Guard to Illinois has intensified the already volatile political climate between federal immigration authorities and state leaders. Tom Homan, who serves as the acting deputy secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, confirmed during an appearance on America Reports that the Guard has commenced operations in the region to protect ICE personnel. Homan attributed the surge in violence to a growing anti-ICE sentiment, particularly from local and state officials, which, he argues, has led to an increase in attacks against immigration officers across the Midwest.
Illinois has become a focal point of this conflict, with the state’s leaders firmly opposing what they describe as a federal overreach into local law enforcement matters. Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have publicly denounced ICE activities in the state, alleging that officers are disproportionately targeting individuals of specific ethnic backgrounds. In a recent press statement, Pritzker criticized President Donald Trump for leveraging the National Guard as a political tool, calling the deployment a ‘power grab’ that undermines state authority. Johnson echoed these sentiments, accusing federal agents of engaging in racial profiling and other forms of misconduct.
The Department of Homeland Security has responded to these criticisms by issuing a detailed rebuttal, categorically denying allegations of racial bias in its operations. A DHS statement released in the same week highlighted that over 1,000 individuals have been arrested in Illinois under immigration enforcement, including individuals with criminal records such as convicted pedophiles and gang members. The agency emphasized that its efforts are focused on removing undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes, rather than targeting individuals based on race or ethnicity.
Homan has been a vocal advocate for increased federal security measures, warning that the rhetoric from state officials like Pritzker has contributed to an environment where violence against law enforcement is becoming more common. He cited recent incidents in Texas—including a shooting at an ICE detention center in Alvarado and a sniper attack in Dallas that killed two detainees—as evidence of the dangers posed by this anti-ICE sentiment. Homan has stated that if the political rhetoric from elected officials does not change, the situation could lead to further bloodshed.
Meanwhile, local communities have expressed mixed reactions to the deployment of state and federal forces. A grieving mother who lost her daughter to an illegal immigrant has publicly criticized Pritzker for allegedly protecting criminal elements, while others have voiced concern over the militarization of public spaces. The situation has sparked a broader debate about the role of state and federal authorities in immigration enforcement and the potential for escalating hostilities between different levels of government.