CHICAGO (AP) — The sight of armed, camouflaged and masked Border Patrol agents making arrests near famous downtown Chicago landmarks has amplified concerns about the Trump administration’s growing federal intervention across U.S. cities.
As Memphis, Tennessee, and Portland, Oregon brace for a federal law enforcement surge, residents in the nation’s third-largest city met a brazen weekend escalation of immigration enforcement tactics with anger, fear and fresh claims of discrimination.
Chicago Alderman Brandon Reilly expressed concern, calling the operation a “photo opp” for President Donald Trump, echoing sentiments from other leaders.
Trump has called the expansion of federal immigration agents and National Guard troops necessary to combat crime and lax immigration policies. He has labeled Portland as “war-ravaged” and threatened an “apocalyptic force” in Chicago.
Border Patrol agents, including Gregory Bovino, known for their aggressive tactics, emphasized they will pursue “anyone who is here illegally,” while investigators and activists raised alarms about racial profiling.
Discrimination Claims in Chicago
The federal immigration crackdown that began in the city has drawn ire from many residents and leaders, with specific instances of family separations contributing to claims of discrimination.
Activists reported sightings of immigration arrests in publicly trafficked areas, intensifying fears of racial profiling.
In Chicago, several residents followed agents during their operations, with one individual declaring her concern more important than her birthday celebrations.
Legal Actions in Portland
In response to the federal deployment in Oregon, Democratic Attorney General Dan Rayfield has sought to block the Trump administration’s plan of deploying the National Guard, citing concerns over the misuse of power.
Protests have persisted, with some frustrations from local residents regarding the impacts of federal law enforcement tactics on their communities.
Concerns in Memphis
As Memphis braces for federal actions aimed at reducing crime, especially among Latino residents, community leaders voiced worries about the chilling effect on those seeking safety and support due to the military presence.
Despite rising violence in recent years, local officials noted a decrease in some crime categories, raising questions about the necessity of the federal response.
