Dozens of masked federal agents were deployed to downtown Chicago last month amid an illegal immigration crackdown.
In late September 2025, downtown Chicago became the focal point of a significant federal law enforcement operation, drawing national attention and sparking widespread debate. Dozens of masked federal agents, clad in military-style fatigues, were observed patrolling the city’s prominent neighborhoods, including the Gold Coast and River North.
This deployment was part of a broader initiative known as “Operation Midway Blitz,” aimed at apprehending undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
The operation, led by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and involving agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), was publicly endorsed by President Donald Trump. He emphasized the necessity of such measures to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.
However, local officials and community leaders expressed concerns over the tactics employed during the operation.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized the federal presence, describing it as a “militarized immigration enforcement” that undermined local authority. Governor Pritzker noted that his office had not been informed about the operation in advance, raising questions about coordination between federal and state agencies. Furthermore, the use of masked agents was particularly contentious, with critics arguing that it contributed to an atmosphere of intimidation and eroded public trust in law enforcement.
The deployment of masked federal agents in downtown Chicago has intensified scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement practices and their impact on local communities. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will influence public opinion and policy decisions regarding immigration and law enforcement in urban areas.
