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12h ago

DHS Shuts Lawmakers Out at Great Lakes Base as Short-Term Immigration Staging Proceeds

The Pentagon has reserved office space there through Oct. 5 with Navy training unaffected.

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U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin speaks about his opposition to President Trump’s plan to use Naval Station Great Lakes to house U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers on Sept 5, 2025, in North Chicago. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

Overview

  • After touring the base, Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth and Rep. Brad Schneider said DHS refused to meet them, locked the office doors and sent staff away.
  • Defense officials have authorized DHS and ICE to use an office building through Oct. 5 for administrative work, parking and storage of non-lethal munitions, and the lawmakers are seeking those limits in writing and no overnight housing.
  • Navy leaders told the delegation the operation will not interfere with boot camp or other training, and that no lethal weapons will be kept on the installation.
  • Key details remain undisclosed, with sources reporting roughly 230 agents may deploy from Los Angeles while some local officials suggest a larger figure.
  • North Chicago–area officials said local police will not assist in civil immigration enforcement as residents plan protests and recount intimidating encounters with federal agents.