why is the national guard in chicago

The National Guard is in Chicago primarily to support federal immigration enforcement efforts and to safeguard U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and federal assets. Approximately 500 National Guard members from Texas and Illinois have been deployed for an initial 60-day period, stationed near Chicago at an Army Reserve facility. This deployment is part of President Donald Trump's strategy to combat what he describes as rampant crime and to bolster immigration crackdown in cities led by Democrats, including Chicago. The troops do not have authority to enforce laws or make arrests but are tasked with protecting federal personnel and property. This deployment has faced strong opposition from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who criticize it as unconstitutional, unnecessary militarization, and a politicized move by the Trump administration. Both have taken legal action to block or challenge the deployment, calling the use of National Guard personnel a misuse and an overreach of presidential power. The deployment follows escalating tensions and protests related to immigration enforcement in the city. In summary, the National Guard's presence in Chicago is a federal initiative to assist immigration enforcement and ensure the safety of federal agents amid heightened protest activity, despite significant controversy and legal challenges from local officials.