Chicago resident Danielle Carter-Walters is speaking out against the city’s sanctuary policies, saying they’ve turned neighborhoods into unsafe zones while ignoring lifelong residents. At a congressional hearing, she slammed Democrats for putting illegal immigrants ahead of Americans. “Sanctuary cities are anything but safe,” she said. “Chicago is drowning in the consequences.”
Carter-Walters, vice president of the group Chicago Flips Red, testified that schools are overcrowded, crime is skyrocketing, and affordable housing is disappearing. She blamed President Biden and former mayors Lori Lightfoot and Brandon Johnson for fueling the crisis. “They didn’t just ignore the collapse. They fueled it,” she told lawmakers.
She highlighted how neighborhoods like Hyde Park have been overrun with illegal immigrant shelters, leading to drug use and sex trafficking in parks. “Lifelong residents are pushed aside,” she said. Small businesses suffer as customers avoid areas crammed with free housing and services for newcomers. Taxpayers foot the bill while local resources vanish.
Democrats like Illinois Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García dismissed her concerns, calling crimes by illegal immigrants “exceptions.” But Carter-Walters fired back: “If he came into our community, he’d see gang graffiti, Tren de Aragua signs, and needles in the parks.” She accused leaders of ignoring reality while living in gated communities untouched by their policies.
Mayor Brandon Johnson defended Chicago’s sanctuary laws, claiming they protect immigrant families. But critics say these policies let violent criminals stay on the streets. Alderman Ray Lopez argued police should share immigration status with federal agents to stop repeat offenders. ICE reports arresting murderers and sex offenders released under sanctuary rules.
Carter-Walters praised President Trump, calling him the “People’s President” for pushing back against open borders. She urged voters to reject Democrats in the next election. “We proudly stand with Trump to bring his message to Black communities,” she said. “The lies from Democrats and the media have to end.”
Residents are fed up. Schools can’t handle overcrowded classrooms, and parents fight over bus seats while illegal immigrants get free rides. Health risks like measles outbreaks add to the chaos. “They’re not paying rent. They’re getting everything free,” Carter-Walters said. “Our city is being stolen from us.”
The hearing exposed a stark divide. Democrats call sanctuary policies compassionate, but conservatives see a disaster. Carter-Walters’ message is clear: Chicago needs leaders who put Americans first. “We’re done being silenced,” she said. “It’s time to flip Chicago red and take back our home.”
