South Cook News

Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran has issued a statement urging the Democratic Majority to prioritize the safety of Illinois citizens over political agendas. This comes in response to a lawsuit filed by the United States Department of Justice against the State of Illinois and City of Chicago, accusing them of hindering federal immigration enforcement.

Curran criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson for allegedly obstructing federal authorities from apprehending dangerous criminals residing illegally in Illinois. He stated, "By continuing to obstruct federal immigration authorities from apprehending dangerous criminals being harbored in Illinois illegally, Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson are putting both law enforcement and Illinoisans at risk."

The Republican leader highlighted past efforts by his party to repeal the Trust Act, which he claims have been ignored by the Democratic Majority. He urged state leaders to reconsider their stance, saying, "Their continued refusal to put the safety of Illinois citizens before their own personal political agendas has now forced the federal government to intervene to keep Americans safe."

Curran called for immediate action, encouraging state officials "to quit impeding law enforcement’s ability to cooperate and assist federal authorities with removing violent criminals who are here in Illinois illegally, and immediately call our repeal of the Trust Act for a vote."

The ongoing debate reflects broader tensions between state policies and federal immigration enforcement priorities.