Border Patrol's Controversial Arrival in Chicago Amplifies Tensions

Wed Sep 17 2025 21:00:28 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The arrival of Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino in Chicago for immigration enforcement escalates fears in immigrant communities as federal actions intensify.

Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol agent behind a controversial immigration crackdown in LA, has arrived in Chicago to continue operations at the behest of President Trump. The move has sparked protests and heightened anxiety among local immigrant populations, already under stress from increased ICE activities. Local officials express concerns about the implications of federal interventions during the current political climate.

CHICAGO (AP) — The Border Patrol agent who spearheaded the immigration crackdown that ignited mass protests in Los Angeles, Gregory Bovino, has officially arrived in Chicago. In a recent post on social media platform X, he declared, Well, Chicago, we’ve arrived! The video accompanying the post showcased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicles and agents stationed around the city, announcing the start of ‘Operation At Large’ in the Midwest.

President Donald Trump has consistently promised an uptick in deportations and the possible deployment of National Guard troops, despite pushback from local leaders and residents. Immigration advocates in Chicago have reported a recent surge in enforcement activities, intensifying fears within immigrant communities that are already on edge.

The approach being taken in Chicago echoes the tactics from Bovino's operations in Los Angeles, which led to widespread criticism due to aggressive enforcement measures. While the specifics of the Chicago operation remain vague, officials have not provided clarity on the scope of immigration enforcement in the area.

Local advocates are concerned that the ramped-up enforcement will perpetuate a climate of fear, especially as significant events such as Mexican Independence Day celebrations are affected. The Department of Homeland Security has publicly asserted its support for these operations, while Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has voiced his concerns regarding federal intervention, indicating heightened tensions as Chicago braces for potential impacts of these immigration actions.