Key Takeaways:
- Focused Enforcement: DHS says “Operation Midway Blitz” is aimed at convicted gang members, rapists, kidnappers, and drug traffickers—“the worst of the worst.”
- Standing Up to Sanctuary Policies: Trump’s administration is stepping in where Illinois leadership won’t, addressing the failures of laws that release dangerous criminals instead of turning them over to ICE.
- Proven Results Nationwide: Similar operations in Texas and Massachusetts led to thousands of arrests, showing the administration’s commitment to protecting American communities.
President Donald Trump is keeping his promise to restore law and order in America’s cities. On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced “Operation Midway Blitz,” an ICE-led crackdown in Illinois focused on removing violent criminals who are in the U.S. illegally.
Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin made it clear: this is about targeting “the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens in Chicago,” including gang members, rapists, kidnappers, and drug traffickers. The operation comes after years of so-called “sanctuary” policies that shield dangerous offenders from federal authorities, often releasing them back onto the streets instead of into ICE custody.
Trump underscored the mission on Truth Social: “I want to help the people of Chicago, not hurt them. Only the Criminals will be hurt! We can move fast and stop this madness.”
While Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson rushed to call the effort a “stunt,” their words ring hollow to residents plagued by crime. The reality is simple: when local leaders refuse to cooperate, the federal government must step in to protect American families.
Similar enforcement pushes in Texas and Massachusetts have already led to thousands of arrests of gang members, child predators, and other violent offenders. Chicago is next.
This isn’t about politics—it’s about safety, accountability, and the rule of law. Trump’s message is clear: in America, criminals don’t get sanctuary. Citizens do. And once again, the Trump administration is proving it will take bold action where blue-state leaders fail.