Chicago community activist sounds off on migrant crisis: ‘I welcome’ Trump border czar

Community activist and founder of Chicago Against Violence, Andre Smith, has made headlines by expressing his willingness to work with incoming Trump border czar, Tom Homan, to address the issue of illegal immigrants in Chicago. Despite being a Democrat, Smith believes that collaboration with Homan could lead to the expedited deportation of migrants who have entered the city under false pretenses.

Smith, who is also a preacher, has been actively involved in helping the homeless population in Chicago and advocating against efforts by Mayor Brandon Johnson to disperse migrants throughout the city. He believes that lying to federal officials about being in fear for one’s life is a federal offense and that individuals who deceive authorities should face consequences.

The sentiments expressed by Smith come at a time when many Chicago residents are frustrated with the city’s “sanctuary city” policies, which have led to an influx of migrants in a city already struggling with high rates of violent crime. Smith highlights the misallocation of taxpayer dollars to support illegal migrants and calls for solutions and change in addressing the issue.

Following President-elect Donald Trump’s re-election, Mayor Brandon Johnson reaffirmed his commitment to defending illegal migrants in Chicago, despite facing criticism from local residents. In response, Tom Homan, the incoming border czar, urged Illinois Democrats to engage in discussions or step aside to allow for effective action to be taken on the issue.

However, Democratic leaders like Rep. Delia Ramirez have vowed to resist Trump’s mass deportation plans, indicating a potential clash with Homan’s approach. In contrast, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has expressed support for deporting violent criminals who are undocumented, aligning with Homan’s stance on the issue.

As the debate over illegal immigration continues to unfold in Chicago and across the nation, the willingness of individuals like Andre Smith to collaborate with officials like Tom Homan may signal a shift in the approach to addressing this complex and contentious issue. Whether through cooperation or resistance, it is clear that the conversation surrounding immigration policy will remain a key focus for political leaders and activists in the coming years.