Overview
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said ICE and CBP will be "out in full force" through Halloween, denying Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s request to halt operations near holiday gatherings.
- Pritzker’s appeal followed an Oct. 25 Old Irving Park operation where agents used chemical agents near a neighborhood parade, which a federal judge referenced in admonishing Border Patrol on use-of-force and warning requirements.
- DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin defended the Oct. 25 action as necessary after agents were "surrounded and boxed in," noting two U.S. citizens were arrested for allegedly assaulting and impeding officers.
- Chicago community leaders organized protected trick‑or‑treat areas, including street closures in Logan Square and a Little Village event, to offer families safer options during ongoing federal activity.
- The Illinois General Assembly passed HB1312 to strengthen sanctuary protections and create a private right of action, as DHS highlights more than 3,000 arrests under Operation Midway Blitz.