Mayor Brandon Johnson on Saturday announced that Chicago police will not collaborate with any federal agents or National Guard troops if US President Donald Trump moves forward with plans to send them to the city.
Surrounded by city leaders, Johnson signed an executive order aimed at preparing Chicago for a potential federal operation, calling Trump’s threat “tyranny” and urging him to reverse course.
“This is about making sure we are prepared,” Johnson said, stressing that the order provides “real, clear guidance” for city workers and residents on how to resist federal interference.
Executive order limits police role
The new order directs Chicago police to continue enforcing state and local laws but bars them from participating in federal patrols, arrests, or other law enforcement actions.
Officers must also wear official uniforms, display body cameras, and avoid masks to ensure they are not mistaken for federal agents.
The order warns that deploying federal forces without local approval “undermines democratic norms, threatens civil liberties, and risks escalating violence rather than securing peace.”
White House dismisses move
The White House rejected Johnson’s order, accusing Democrats of politicizing crime.
“If these Democrats focused on fixing crime in their own cities instead of doing publicity stunts to criticize the President, their communities would be much safer,” spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said.
Legal fight looms
While it remains unclear how much authority state and local officials have to block federal deployments, Johnson said the city is considering lawsuits and other legal measures.
“We will use the courts if that’s necessary,” he told reporters.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat, has also insisted Trump lacks legal authority to send troops without state consent.
Recap
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Mayor Johnson signs order barring cooperation with federal troops
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Police instructed to keep distance from any U.S. enforcement actions
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White House calls move a “publicity stunt”
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Possible legal showdown if Trump moves ahead with deployment
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