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1h ago

DHS Moves to Stage Chicago Immigration Operation at Great Lakes Base as Soon as Next Week

City and state officials say they were not consulted, with ICE and CBP expected to lead a roughly monthlong push using naval facilities.

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GREAT LAKES, IL – AUGUST 29: The exterior of an entrance gate at the Naval Station Great Lakes on August 29, 2025 in Great Lakes, Illinois. The DHS is requesting access to a Chicago Area Naval Station ahead of reported ICE crackdowns on immigration. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
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FILE - A federal agent wears a badge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement while standing outside an immigration courtroom at the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building in New York, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

Overview

  • Naval Station Great Lakes confirmed DHS requested facilities and logistical support, and multiple reports cite an internal memo describing more than 200 federal agents and over 100 vehicles staging there as early as next week for about a month.
  • Two U.S. officials told the Associated Press the operation could start around Sept. 5, focus on immigration enforcement, and is not currently expected to rely on National Guard troops.
  • Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. J.B. Pritzker oppose the plan, while Chicago police say they will not assist immigration enforcement without judicial warrants and will not obstruct federal agents.
  • White House border chief Tom Homan said a large contingent is coming but withheld specifics; North Chicago’s mayor said the base will provide offices and that agents will lodge off-base.
  • Immigrant advocacy groups are activating rapid-response and know-your-rights efforts, and officials are urging any demonstrations to remain peaceful as communities prepare for possible raids.