Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is set to appear before Congress on March 5, 2025, to defend the city’s sanctuary policies, which limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer (R-KY), has called for Johnson and other mayors to explain how their cities manage immigration enforcement and public safety while upholding protections for undocumented residents.
Johnson will testify alongside the mayors of New York, Boston, and Denver, all of whom have been asked to provide documents related to their sanctuary city policies. The hearing comes as cities across the U.S. face increased migrant arrivals and pressure from the federal government to change their stance on immigration enforcement.
What’s at Stake?
Chicago has been a sanctuary city for decades, meaning local police do not cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain or deport undocumented immigrants. Supporters argue these policies protect immigrant communities, while critics claim they create loopholes that allow undocumented criminals to avoid deportation.
The issue has become even more pressing as migrant numbers rise, putting strain on city resources. The Biden administration has increased immigration enforcement efforts, targeting undocumented individuals in cities like Chicago. Republican lawmakers argue that sanctuary policies make cities less safe, while Democratic officials say federal crackdowns only spread fear among immigrant communities.
Johnson’s Defense of Sanctuary Policies
Mayor Johnson has remained firm in his stance that Chicago will not change its sanctuary city status. In a recent press conference, he called federal efforts to target sanctuary cities “unconscionable and unacceptable.”
“We are a city built on diversity and inclusion,” Johnson said. “Chicago will continue to be a welcoming place for all people, regardless of immigration status. We will not allow fear-mongering to dictate our policies.”
His administration argues that cooperation between local police and ICE would lead to mistrust within immigrant communities, making it harder for law enforcement to investigate serious crimes.
Federal Pushback and Growing Tensions
Republican lawmakers have been highly critical of sanctuary cities, claiming they create safe havens for undocumented criminals. Chairman Comer and other GOP officials have requested internal documents from Johnson’s office detailing how Chicago handles migrant arrivals and public safety concerns.
As the March 5 hearing approaches, tensions are expected to rise, with Johnson likely facing tough questioning from Republican lawmakers who want to see federal funding for sanctuary cities cut.
What’s Next?
The upcoming hearing will be a defining moment for sanctuary city policies in the U.S. With cities struggling to balance humanitarian concerns and public safety, the outcome could have lasting implications for immigration enforcement nationwide.
