Armed federal agents patrolled downtown Chicago on Sunday, marking a sharp escalation in the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. The move came shortly after President Donald Trump announced plans to send troops to Portland, intensifying the federal government’s presence in U.S. cities.
At the same time, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee confirmed that federal authorities — including immigration and drug enforcement agents — are expected to begin operations in Memphis this week.
Chicago
On Sunday, federal agents in tactical gear walked through some of Chicago’s busiest areas, including Michigan Avenue, the Chicago River, and upscale neighborhoods. Their presence drew mixed reactions: tourists snapped photos while activists followed the agents, blowing whistles and chanting.
Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the patrols, saying residents were being “intimidated by masked federal agents flaunting automatic weapons for no apparent reason.” Gov. JB Pritzker echoed that sentiment, calling the move a “show of intimidation” that threatens community safety and business activity.
Federal officials insisted the operation targeted “the worst of the worst” individuals in the country illegally with criminal records. Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol agent linked to earlier crackdowns in Los Angeles, said “several arrests” had been made but offered no details.
Outside Chicago, tensions flared at an ICE facility in Broadview, where federal agents used pepper balls and tear gas on crowds of protesters Friday and Saturday. Broadview’s mayor accused ICE of endangering local residents and first responders. Activists say the facility is operating as a de facto detention center under inhumane conditions.
President Trump has previously threatened to send the National Guard into Chicago but has not acted on that threat.
Portland
In Portland, Trump vowed to deploy “all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland,” describing demonstrators as “domestic terrorists.” Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek pushed back, accusing him of abusing federal authority. “There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security,” Kotek said.
While federal agents reported injuries and arrests around an ICE facility, local leaders — including business and law enforcement officials — said the situation does not justify the military presence Trump is proposing. A Pentagon spokesperson said updates would be provided when available, while the Oregon National Guard confirmed that any deployment would require approval from the governor’s office.
Memphis
Memphis, a city that has faced high levels of violent crime in recent years, is now preparing for a federal law enforcement task force announced by Trump. Gov. Lee suggested no more than 150 National Guard members would be deployed and emphasized that they would not be armed or authorized to make arrests unless requested by local authorities.
He also noted that about 300 Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers would be sent to the region. Local officials stressed that no tanks or heavy military equipment would be used.
Still, Latino residents expressed fears that ICE activity could increase and lead to legal residents being wrongfully detained. On Saturday, demonstrators rallied outside Memphis City Hall, calling instead for greater investment in education, youth programs, and healthcare.
Oregon officials have voiced similar concerns, urging federal leaders to prioritize community services over military-style enforcement.
