Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and other Democratic mayors faced tough questions from Republicans in Congress about their sanctuary city policies. The hearing got heated as GOP lawmakers accused the mayors of putting illegal immigrants ahead of American citizens.
Johnson claimed Chicago’s rules make the city safer by letting undocumented residents report crimes without fear. But Republicans shot back, pointing to crimes committed by migrants and the high cost of housing them. When asked about the budget, Johnson struggled to explain how much taxpayer money has been spent on migrant care.
Over $600 million of Chicago’s funds have gone to housing and services for migrants since 2022. Critics slammed this spending while the city deals with crime and other problems. Johnson argued it’s only 1% of the budget, but GOP members called it a waste. One congressman told Johnson, “You’re putting illegal immigrants above Chicago taxpayers.”
Democrat Rep. Jasmine Crockett tried to defend the mayors by asking if they knew any immigrants with 34 felony convictions. The question backfired, making Crockett look out of touch. Republicans said her comment ignored the real victims of crimes committed by migrants.
The Trump administration is suing Chicago for blocking ICE from enforcing immigration laws. Republicans warned that sanctuary policies protect criminals and hurt public safety. They highlighted cases where undocumented immigrants committed violent crimes after being released by local police.
Mayor Johnson insisted Chicago police will work with ICE if agents have a criminal warrant. But Republicans said this isn’t enough. They accused Democrats of letting politics put Americans at risk. One lawmaker vowed to refer the mayors for federal investigation.
The hearing showed a deep divide on immigration. Democrats say sanctuary cities build trust. Republicans call them lawless zones that drain resources. As Biden’s DOJ fights Chicago in court, the battle over immigration enforcement is far from over.
With crime and border security top issues for voters, this clash could shape the 2026 midterms. Conservatives argue cities like Chicago prove Democrats care more about illegal immigrants than their own citizens. The GOP promises to keep pushing for stricter enforcement nationwide.
