Rep. Lauren Underwood, the Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, has come forward with insights from a recent briefing on ICE's actions in Illinois, particularly noting the absence of public safety data to justify the ongoing surge in operations. Dubbed “Operation Midway Blitz,” the initiative was launched on September 6 and involves multiple law enforcement agencies, including ICE and the U.S. Department of Justice, according to details provided by Underwood, in a statement obtained by her office. Since its inception, 250 individuals have been taken into custody and moved to detention centers across state lines in Indiana and Wisconsin.
Underwood expressed concern over the lack of transparency from the Trump Administration, which has not offered a clear definition of what constitutes a "sanctuary jurisdiction". This has led to confusion and difficulty for local law enforcement and communities throughout Illinois. The Representative highlights the importance of constitutional rights for everyone in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, and encourages those in contact with federal law enforcement to exercise those rights. For those experiencing issues with detained family members or property damage from ICE employees, Underwood's office is offering assistance and directing them to ICE's claim-filing website.
The Trump Administration continues to target individuals they classify as “in the U.S. illegally” – a term which now includes those previously protected under programs like Temporary Protected Status, which the current administration has terminated. Underwood's statement underscores the uncertainty and disparities stemming from the administration's execution of immigration policy, particularly around sanctuary laws and jurisdictions. In response to these developments and pursuant to her role as Ranking Member, she's actively engaging with the affected community and relaying critical information. Residents in need can reach out to her directly for support.
Furthermore, Underwood's briefing revealed that the surge is not exclusive to Chicago but impacts the entire state of Illinois as well as Lake County, Indiana. Aside from the implications of the surge itself, families are now grappling with additional challenges in tracing and contacting detained loved ones. As administration officials have indicated publicly, the ICE enforcement actions for this operation are focused on individuals who have been charged or convicted of a crime, or those who have been arrested but not charged or convicted, especially in jurisdictions labeled by ICE as sanctuaries. Amidst these revelations, Underwood remains vigilant in sharing updates, all the while advocating for her constituents’ rights and access to legal assistance through her office's resources.
