SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has asked the Department of War to send 100 military troops to Illinois to protect ICE agents, according to a memo seen by Gov. JB Pritzker. The Democrat said President Donald Trump is violating the Constitution by putting military troops in American cities.
"The MAGA Republican-supported invasion of Portland, Chicago, L.A. and Washington, D.C. is not making us any safer," Pritzker said Monday. "Instead, it is putting our people in danger."Â
This comes after weeks of protests outside an ICE facility in Broadview, where ICE agents have used tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.
Pritzker told reporters in Chicago that he is furious the Trump administration is now arresting people on the street "simply for the way they look."
"They're not targeting violent criminals or gang members," Pritzker said. "They're arresting tamale vendors, and delivery men and shaking down families. Donald Trump, Kristi Noem and Tom Homan said they were targeting the worst of the worst criminals. They lied."
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul said Trump should expect a legal challenge if the National Guard arrives in Chicago. He argues that the mobilization of the military is an ineffective strategy to address crime. He also stressed that this action is illegal.
"What the president is hoping to do is foment chaos by inciting out-of-control protests," Raoul said. "So, I urge Illinoisans, don't take the bait."Â
The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus said every Illinoisan deserves the right to due process, medical care and access to legal counsel. Latino leaders said they will continue to stand up for the voiceless.
"Let us be absolutely clear—No president, no agent, no badge is above the constitution," said Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago).
Attorney General Pam Bondi said the deployment of troops will protect ICE agents and facilities from violence. Bondi said troops will arrest "violent agitators" on the spot, and she will pursue federal charges.
The Illinois Republican Party posted on Facebook that Democrats are celebrating as attacks against ICE agents are up over 800%.Â
"These vile attacks must immediately be condemned and silence is compliance," the IL GOP posted.Â
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