Overview
- In a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, ICE Acting Director Todd M. Lyons and CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott, Gov. J.B. Pritzker asks for a suspension of enforcement Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 near homes, schools, hospitals, parks, houses of worship and community events.
- The request follows reports that federal agents used tear gas in Irving Park as families headed to a Halloween parade, with DHS stating warnings were issued and a witness saying he heard none.
- Pritzker cites the rescission of prior DHS guidance limiting actions at sensitive locations and urges its restoration to protect children and caregivers.
- U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis highlighted the parade incident while questioning Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino about the use of chemical agents where children were present.
- Recent operations under 'Operation Midway Blitz' have triggered community disruptions, including a disputed soft lockdown at a Wicker Park school and student walkouts in Little Village, with Pritzker set to brief reporters Thursday morning.