North Chicago Mayor to Issue executive Order Protecting Immigrant Rights Amidst Intensified Federal Crackdown
North Chicago, IL – October 17, 2025 – In a direct response to the ongoing federal immigration enforcement surge known as ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. is preparing to sign an executive order designed to safeguard the rights of all residents, nonetheless of immigration status. The move comes as federal agents continue to utilize the Naval Station Great Lakes as a base of operations, sparking concerns within the community.
Mayor Rockingham Jr. has publicly voiced his opposition to ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ emphasizing the importance of trust between local government and all its constituents. “We want to send a clear message to our residents: North chicago stands with you,” he stated in a recent interview with NBC Chicago.
Federal Presence Extended, Raising Local Concerns
The department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially established a presence at Naval Station Great Lakes in early September, initially for a 30-day period ending October 5th. However, the Mayor revealed this week that the deployment has been extended, perhaps through the end of the year.
“I was informed by the base’s executive officer that the operation’s duration has been prolonged,” Rockingham explained. “This extended presence is understandably causing anxiety within our community.”
The executive order aims to alleviate those anxieties by explicitly prohibiting city officials from inquiring about or sharing an individual’s immigration status with federal authorities unless legally mandated.Furthermore, the city will collaborate with local organizations to establish “safe spaces” where immigrants can report crimes and access essential services without fear of deportation.
City Resources Strained by Federal Operations
The increased federal activity isn’t just a matter of civil rights; it’s also impacting north Chicago’s budget. The Mayor estimates that responding to protests and ensuring public safety during enforcement actions has already cost the city between $30,000 and $40,000 in overtime pay for police and other city departments.
“This was an unforeseen expense for a city operating on a $40 million budget,” Rockingham noted. “The situation coudl have been substantially worse had the National Guard been deployed and stationed at the base.”
Witnessing Enforcement Firsthand
The Mayor’s concerns are rooted in firsthand observations. He recently captured video footage of federal agents detaining individuals near the border of Waukegan and North Chicago.
“I witnessed agents apprehending workers at a local restaurant – contractors simply doing their jobs,” he recounted. “This isn’t the America we believe in. It’s a disturbing overreach.”
NBC Chicago has reached out to DHS for comment regarding the specific incident, and is awaiting a response.
DHS Defends operation, Cites Public Safety
In a statement to NBC Chicago, a senior DHS official defended ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ stating: “President Trump has been clear: we are going to make our streets and cities safe again. Across the country, DHS law enforcement are arresting and removing the worst of the worst including gang members, murderers, pedophiles, and rapists that have terrorized American communities. Under secretary Noem, ICE and CBP are working overtime to deliver on the American people’s mandate to arrest and deport criminal illegal aliens and make America safe again.”
A clear Stance: No City Support for Federal Enforcement
Despite the DHS justification, Mayor Rockingham jr. has drawn a firm line. He has directed the North Chicago Police Department to refrain from assisting federal agents in any way and has prohibited them from utilizing city property for staging operations.
“Our police department will not be involved,” he affirmed.”We are focused on serving and protecting all our residents.”
The executive order signing is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Monday, marking a significant step in North Chicago’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of its diverse community. This action underscores the growing tension between local and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement and highlights the critical role cities play in safeguarding the constitutional rights of their residents.
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