# Press Availability 6.11.25

- Date: June 11, 2025
- Type: Video
- Length: 1:05:18
- Topic: Press conferences
- Video: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-loVbqPMH0)
- Transcript: Machine transcription, 8,186 words ([text](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/files/transcripts/youtube/P-loVbqPMH0.txt))
- Mayor: [Brandon Johnson](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor)

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=0) Introduction and protest prep
- [12:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=771) Ride-share and federal optics
- [27:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1662) Federal immigration threats
- [35:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2142) Protest tactics and safety
- [40:56](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2456) CPD role and legal matters
- [47:25](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2845) Economic and governance issues
- [53:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3222) Final policy and school board

## Description

Mayor Brandon Johnson hosts press availability.

## Transcript

[6:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=419) Today, this is an opportunity yet again for us to walk through some of the matters that we are faced as a city. I'm joined this afternoon with our Deputy Mayor for Community Safety, Garen Gatewood, our Deputy Mayor for Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights, Beatrice Ponce de Leon, our Corporation Counsel, Mary Richardson-Laurie is also here, and you all know my Chief of Staff, Christina Pacillon-Zayas. This morning we want to briefly talk to you all about what we have seen in California over this past week

[7:37](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=457) and our own preparations here to keep all Chicagoans safe while protecting the fundamental rights to freedom of speech and the freedom to assemble. When it comes to handling large-scale demonstrations, the Chicago Police Department, OEMC, and the Chicago Fire Department have extensive experience in ensuring the safety and the constitutionality of managing large-scale events.

[8:07](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=487) In the lead-up to the DNC, there were a number of questions around whether or not our police department was ready for large-scale protests. What we ended up seeing was that thousands of people were able to safely exercise their First Amendment rights with minimal issues. There will always be, unfortunately, a small minority who will take advantage of a protest or demonstration to cause chaos, but the vast majority of protesters remain peaceful and organized.

[8:41](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=521) Over the past two years, we have had experience in managing spontaneous protests as well as large demonstrations related to the war in Gaza in particular. Our goal in these cases remained the same. We want Chicagoans from all walks of life, young, old, able-bodied, and people with disabilities to be able to safely exercise their First Amendment rights. We also recognize that even in the midst of heightened political tension, The people of Chicago still need to get to work every single day.

[9:15](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=555) They still need us to drive down violence in our neighborhoods, which we still are. They still need ambulances as well as emergency services to be able to get through. So we have a responsibility to both protect the rights of protesters, but also to keep our city moving no matter the circumstances. When it comes to the power of nonviolent protests, I'm going to make an emphatic point here. It was Dr. Keene that explained to us, I think he did an incredible job,

[9:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=588) explained this to us 60 years ago, where he said that the practical aspect of nonviolent resistance is that it exposes the moral defenses of the opponent. He has no answer for it, but if you use violence, he does have an answer. He has the state militia. That is exactly what we are seeing in Los Angeles. When a small number of protesters set things on fire, it plays into the hand of authoritarians like Donald Trump,

[10:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=621) who take advantage to ultimately repress all protesters. What we have seen in Los Angeles is really not about immigration. This is not about policy. This is about power. We have a tyrant in the White House who has a complete disregard for our Constitution and the dismissing of our democracy. The First Amendment of our Constitution clearly states that the federal government guarantees the right of the people to peaceably to assemble.

[11:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=660) The right to peacefully protest is so fundamental to our country that it is the very First Amendment of our Constitution. And when we talk about democracy, we are not talking about just voting every four years. In a democratic society, the people are in charge, and the government is responsive to the needs of everyday people. When we talk about democracy, we are not talking about some high and lofty idea.

[11:31](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=691) We are talking about A. Philip Randolph's definition. He says, a community is democratic only when the humblest and the weakest person can enjoy the highest civil, economic, and social rights that the biggest and most powerful possesses. In a democratic society, it doesn't matter if you have billions of dollars or if you are living paycheck to paycheck. We should all have the same rights under the law.

[12:03](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=723) And that is why we stand up for our immigrant community. That is why we stand up for incarcerated people. That is why we stand up for working people. What we are seeing in California and across this country is an affront to that idea. We are seeing poor and working people being terrorized without due process. We continue to see families being ripped apart. While federal immigration enforcement have jurisdiction, we want to continue to assure that all Chicagoans know their rights.

[12:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=758) We will work with our community partners to continue to stand up for our immigrant community and for all of our people in our beloved city. Now I'm happy to answer any of the questions that you may have at this time. Okay. We'll start here with Justin. We have time for one question, one follow-up. We've got to be quick because there's a lot of folks here. Hey, Mayor. On the rideshare ordinance, you know, you've said that you support workers, drivers, you know, having a boost to their wages, but you have not endorsed the ordinance specifically.

[13:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=790) What about the ordinance has not gained your support so far? Well, it's not a matter of whether or not it has my support or not. It's just a matter of making sure that we cover all of our bases, right? There's an entire review process that we go through to ensure that our pro-worker positions that we will work to codify will be able to stand up during, you know, whether it's criticism or protest. We're seeing now that there are some places in America that are having second thoughts about abolishing the sub-minimum wage,

[13:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=828) where here we are in the city of Chicago, we're holding firm to our values. So it's not about just getting it done, it's about getting it done right. Is there a portion that you don't think is currently right and needs to be changed before it goes up for vote? What we do is we look at all of it in a very comprehensive way, and as the most pro-worker city in America, I'm confident that we'll be able to continue to find pathways to continue to strengthen our city as a pro-worker city. Thank you. Good morning, Mr. Mayor. It is good afternoon.

[14:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=859) Oh, it is, isn't it? Thank you. You're welcome. We've seen what happened in Los Angeles, the federal government bringing in not only National Guard but also Marines. Has Chicago made any special preparations to accommodate that kind of federal presence in our city? And are we giving any kind of thought to protest zones and ways to keep the downtown area open and free for business while First Amendment protests are going on? Yeah, the first and foremost goal and our responsibility is to keep everyone safe.

[14:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=894) and to protect the rights of the people of this city and around the country. And so constitutional policing is our prevailing form of leadership, and we will continue to ensure that constitutional policing is carried out. Look, we do this well. There were concerns that people had about my administration leaded into the DNC, a lot of hyperbolic concerns, quite frankly. And, you know, look, we've demonstrated that we know how to protect people's right to assemble and to protect the Constitution while making sure that government continues to show up for people

[15:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=929) and that the everyday routines are not entirely interrupted. As far as what our preparation will look like moving forward, we do know that this president is determined to insert chaos. Our responsibility locally is to continue to provide calm and structure to this situation. It's a really terrible moment in our nation's history where families are being ripped apart.

[16:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=960) And, you know, we also have just an absolutely criminalized approach towards governance. And this president clearly continues to show how low he will stoop. in order to protect the interests of a handful of people. The fact of the matter is he's been president of the United States of America for less than 200 days, and he has been a miserable disappointment and a failure.

[16:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=992) Have you had any communication with federal authorities about the possibility of bringing out the National Guard here or seeing Marines in Chicago? I have, you know, complete confidence that between those who are protesting who want to ensure that their message is brought to the federal government, that they'll be able to effectively do that. Any need beyond our local police department as we assess the full situation, this is not something that even the state of California called for, right?

[17:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1028) I mean, so this president's desire to not only militarize and criminalize, but his commitment to drive chaos is something that I've said from the very beginning is not only reckless, but it's incomprehensible, quite frankly. So we're going to protect people's right to assemble while also ensuring that Chicagoans can get through their day-to-day. We don't have time for a long question today, sir, so just straight to the question and we're going to go right to Heather.

[17:41](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1061) Yeah, yeah, straight to the question and we're going to go straight to Heather. Thank you. Jeez. I thought the theme of today's press conference was freedom of speech. At any rate, you have called on the citizens of Chicago to rise up against ICE, to resist ICE, to fight back against ICE. many Chicagoans, including black and brown, tell me that that sounds like a call to violence. In light of the violence that we're seeing in Los Angeles now, the looting, the damage to property,

[18:13](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1093) the attacks on law enforcement, would you consider withdrawing that violent call to violence? I believe in nonviolence. I believe in nonviolence. Right. Well, you also have said that the illegal immigrants that are being targeted by ICE are the working families of Chicago. The real Chicagoans are now facing tax increases because you've spent millions of their tax dollars on migrants.

[18:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1128) They're including a grocery tax. Okay, we need that question. Why would you think that real Chicagoans should trust you to spend their money after you've already wasted millions of it on illegal aliens? We are investing in people. Is that really honestly your only answer? We're going to go to Heather now, thanks. Wow. Hi, Mayor. Hey. I want to cast your memory back to last week when a number of older people were protesting ICE outside a facility on Michigan Avenue and Chicago Police Department officers and supervisors were present there.

[19:20](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1160) Are you confident that the reaction and the response of CPD did not violate the city's welcoming city ordinance or the Illinois Trust Act? Did officers act appropriately during that confrontation? What we saw was we saw an unprecedented attack against the sensibility of our humanity. And under those circumstances, I am relieved.

[19:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1191) That the number of people who were there to call attention to what ICE is doing or has done, that they were present. As far as the reaction of our police department, their responsibility was to ensure that if there was any element of that protest that could impact the safety of protesters in our residence, that they were there to ensure that safety was maximized.

[20:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1227) We are a welcoming city. The Illinois Trust Act is the law of the land. We will continue to uphold both of those policies. Of course, we're going to review and continue to review what went down last week. And there's an open meeting that's going to take place with a number of alders so that everyone is clear about the role that the local police department plays

[20:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1259) and how this particular unprecedented attack played out. Back to a little bit of normal city news, there's a measure that just advanced out of the city's License and Consumer Protection Committee that would allow alder people to ban new short-term rentals from setting up in their wards. Do you favor that initiative, which could potentially significantly decrease the amount of short-term rentals in Chicago?

[21:31](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1291) You know, what I want is, you know, I want to make sure that in everything that we do, that we continue to ensure that we're building a safe, affordable city. You know, this particular measure, quite frankly, I'll have to look into a little bit deeper. But, you know, I know that there are a number of alders who mean well and are trying to show up for, you know, their particular pocket of the city. My responsibility is to ensure that whatever measure is put forth is that, you know, the impact that that will or could have on the entire city, that I keep that into full consideration.

[22:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1330) And in this instance, I would do the same. As we look towards Saturday. What's your name? Oh, Whitney Wild from CNN. From CNN. Yes. You just, you know, when a new student shows up in the classroom, I'm going to notice. Welcome to UNN. I don't come as often as I wish I could. Well, change that. I'm working on it. I'm here today. Thank you. It's my pleasure. So as we look towards Saturday, what do you anticipate the posture of the Chicago Police Department is going to be? You know, there are large protests Saturday here and all across the country.

[22:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1362) Again, what is the posture of CPD for Saturday? And then additionally, do you know if the city is having strong communications with the event organizers to make sure that expectations for what you can and can't provide are clear? Thank you for that question, and thank you for being here. Our first responsibility is to ensure that we keep everyone safe. That is my number one responsibility. It's what I think about every day, all day. The work that we have done collectively continues to drive violence down in the city of Chicago

[23:14](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1394) because that's something that is of a top priority of mine. And so our approach won't be that much different on Saturday in terms of what our ultimate responsibility is. And when we're talking about keeping people safe, the right to assemble peacefully is a constitutional right. So we have to protect that. Now look, there are some actors that unfortunately act outside of their constitutional protection. And if that were to take place, those individuals will be held responsible and accountable.

[23:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1428) To the extent in which I can name how we are in constant conversation and coordination with organizers, that's the strength of my administration. We talk to people. Now, there are some organizers that might develop over the next week or so that we're going to have to identify, but when the large-scale protests took place as there were strong voices calling for a ceasefire and the releasing of hostages,

[24:23](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1463) we demonstrated that we can coordinate with organizers of These demonstrations with law enforcement to keep everyone safe, that is what my expectation has always been, and I remain committed to that expectation. You know, what's most disturbing, however, about Saturday is how the President of the United States of America is using our armed forces to celebrate him. You know, we're going to see a very grotesque demonstration with tanks and other military, high-powered military gear that reflects authoritarianism and dictatorship.

[25:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1506) That's something that, as a leader of one of the most dynamic economies in the world, I find that to be quite disturbing. But we're going to make sure that here locally that we demonstrate what's sensible about our democracy, and that's protecting the fundamental right to protest and demonstrate and to peacefully assemble. And if individuals work outside of those confines, we'll hold them accountable. You might already have a policy in place for this, but just on the off chance that you don't. As we see these protests roll through, and we saw high-level supervisors out.

[25:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1539) We saw Deputy Mayor Gatewood out last night. What kind of sort of spot checks are you going to do on the Chicago Police Department's response to make sure that what you, you know, the goal is actually happening in practice? Well, thank you for acknowledging our deputy mayor's presence. My administration was out there, and he wasn't the only one to ensure that those checkpoints are reflective of my vision as well as the reflection of our democracy.

[26:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1569) That will continue to happen, and there will be a constant review of our practices. We've reviewed to your colleagues' question around what happened when ICE snuck into our city and set human traps. Excuse me. You've got to be really sick, sick and demented to do this to people.

[26:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1604) This president's reckless behavior. I didn't know you could look worse than George Wallace. Our team will be present to ensure that we're holding to our values. And Deputy Mayor Gatewood and his team and our chief of staff, all of us, are ensuring that the people of Chicago are supported and protected and their constitutional rights are intact.

[27:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1636) Thank you for that question. Good afternoon, Mayor. Good afternoon. Along those lines, and this may be a question for Deputy Mayor Ponce de Leon, what kind of contacts are there with the feds if you're hearing anything from ICE or federal enforcement about plans for the near future and what they may or may not be doing?

[27:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1670) Thank you for that question. Are they even giving you any contact? I'm going to turn it over to our chief of staff. Yeah, we've received word that the federal agents have been informed that they have 48 hours to stand by and be ready to deploy. There will be tactical teams. There will be mini tanks. There will be other tools that they use in which they plan to do raids, as we saw in Los Angeles.

[28:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1701) So that information, it's actually pretty public. It has been out there and, in fact, on official channels. So that's what we are aware of. We have been coordinating with the state. We have been also coordinating with the county, making sure that we have open lines of communication. And Deputy Mayor Gatewood has been doing some additional discussions, coordination, and communications internally. I spoke directly with the governor just an hour or so ago as he prepares for his testimony at the Oversight Committee.

[28:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1734) I spoke with Board President Tony Preckwinkle. It's going to take all of us to stand firm to ensure that our democracy is intact. And what are you hearing from people in the community? I mean, we've heard some reports in earlier this week that it's going back to when people were afraid to come outside or go to work or take their kids to school. They're terrified. They are absolutely terrified.

[29:24](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1764) And that's look, I remember a few. Stand-ups ago, when I talked about what terrorism looks like, this is it. There should be no question to what our country would look like had the Confederacy won. We're seeing it on full display. And there's no art form in this. this is literally just using the power of the federal apparatus to insert its will on whomever

[29:57](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1797) right now in our country there's no check and balance it doesn't exist right now Speaker Johnson who is third in charge if something were to happen to the President of the United States of America won't even raise his voice as a believer as a believer in faith and justice these individuals are cowards they are hypocrites they're dangerous

[30:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1829) there's one branch of government right now in this country one branch he has taken over the courts the Congress says nothing and so people are terrified but in the city of Chicago we are going to remain vigilant and firm in protecting what is sensible about our existence and that's ensuring that the Constitution is actually maintained here's the bottom line is this you either support the Constitution or you do not and right now this president is literally just

[31:02](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1862) trampling all over the Constitution right now and doing it in plain sight and so we're going to do everything in our power Beatrice Ponce de Leon, Deputy Mayor we're going to make sure that people know their rights we'll relaunch and relaunch again to ensure that people of Chicago know their rights. Thank you, Mayor. Could you or Mary maybe update us on the investigation by the Department of Justice into the hiring? Are you having to supply documents?

[31:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1892) Have you had to do interviews? Is that something you can address? Just before I turn it over to Mary Richardson, Laurie, this is so fraudulent. It's a slap in the face to the civil rights era movement. I mean, you have a president that is establishing a cabinet that looks like the country club, the oligarchs, the ultra rich individuals who have no background and training in the very department in which they are entrusted to serve.

[32:05](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1925) You know, we're very proud of the fact that we have a number of incredibly talented, capable, diverse individuals that are helping to transform our city. There's clearly benefit in the way my administration has approached governance. Violent crime is down. Investments are up. So this is not about whether or not we're effective. This is about creating a distraction so that he can continue his efforts to rob working people in this country.

[32:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1958) Mary. Mary Richardson, Lori Corporation Counsel. We have begun to have a dialogue with the Justice Department regarding their letter. we did finally formally receive a copy of their letter in which they assert Title VII violations as their allegation, contingent upon the ongoing communications that we have with them. So we will be submitting a written response to them so they understand our position.

[33:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=1990) They, in turn, are going to be submitting some questions to us to help to narrow the scope of their request. and then that dialogue will continue within the bounds of the law. Mayor, can you step back from all of this a little bit and talk about being mayor of a blue city and the challenge of that right now? Are you all on a text chain wondering how you're going to communicate for the next three years and seven months?

[33:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2022) So you can FOIA it? So that's a great question. What I will say is this. There are some fundamental differences between cities that are ran by Democrats and those ran by other members of different parties or different parties, Republican Party. But there's one thing, though, that is consistent, is that we know that it's at the city level is where government really shows up for people.

[34:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2058) And so in that regard, that there is a universal line of communication through the U.S. Conference of Mayors, which I believe I'm going to... Next week, they talk to mayors all over the country, and they all won't be Democrats, right? They're all concerned with what I'm concerned about, whether you're Republican or Democrat or independent or otherwise. Community safety, investing in housing, health care, and good-paying jobs or education system. You know, as far as, you know, Democratic cities, I will say that it is clear that there is more intentionality

[34:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2093) around the Trump administration to attack democratically-ran cities. In fact, Governor Abbott spent millions of dollars attacking our city, literally spent millions of dollars, not trying to work in collaboration to coordinate how we can deal with what occurred or what was happening at the border. I will say, though, that our resolve is my resolve, and our collective resolve still remains. I will say, though, that that communication extends beyond mayors.

[35:25](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2125) It even speaks to community groups. I'm going to turn over to our Deputy Mayor, Ponce de Leon, and she can speak about some of the work that's happening on the ground and the way in which we're all communicating to ensure that we're showing up for working people and at this time in particular our immigrant community. Thank you, Mayor. Yes, thanks for that question. You know, our team is part of a network, a national network of immigrant affairs, immigrant rights offices, out of mayor's offices, so we are certainly connected to them there and are seeing the types of activities that are going on in other cities as well.

[35:57](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2157) But locally, we meet and often are in touch with the major organizations that are fighting this and trying to inform residents, so the National Immigrant Justice Center, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, the Resurrection Project, OCAD. And what we hear is certainly people are afraid, but people are also finding ways to stand up for their rights and to get connected to resources. And just a couple of the challenges right now is the need for legal support for deportation defense and for legal guidance.

[36:30](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2190) And as we try to drive some philanthropic private dollars in that direction, but also just send an invitation out to lawyers and others that might want to support those efforts, that is the most pressing need that we're seeing right now. And then in working with these organizations, also pushing out not only your rights information, but ways that families and individuals can be prepared in the case of a detention and what they can do. So I am often sharing this number, but I want to share it again.

[37:01](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2221) There's a hotline. It's 1-855-435-7693. That's for any immigration-related question or emergency. People recommend that, you know, give them a call. And then the shared website that is with the state and some of the organizations. And that one is good for beyond Chicago. And we're seeing, we might see these actions happening outside of the city as well. So that is IllinoisImmigrationInfo.org. But we are in regular communication with those organizations.

[37:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2254) Hi, Mayor. How are you? Good afternoon. Good afternoon. Got it right. What do we know about the ICE tactical units that are going to be sent to, you mentioned Chicago. We know L.A. already, Philly, other large cities that are going to be anchors for these protests on Saturday. Do we know when they're coming, what protesters should look out for or expect? You know, just as I mentioned before, you know, yesterday the notice was given to agents that they have 48 hours to deploy, that there will be five cities that are targeted, Democrat-led cities, Chicago being one of them for sure, and that they were going to be targeting, you know, workplaces in terms of the raids.

[38:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2299) We have seen how they've shown up in L.A. with the mini tanks, with arms, with also chemical agents. We have seen them in full riot gear. We have seen them fully concealed. We also witnessed last week there were deceptive practices where they text people who were expecting to go into a place to do the check-in with their immigration proceedings,

[38:49](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2329) and, of course, they were intercepted by ICE. So we can expect all of those types of tactics, inclusive of evading due process, deceptive tactics and concealing identity, along with some of those more aggressive actions that we witnessed in L.A. And then just thinking about what happened yesterday, our crew was on the ground when a car drove through the crowd. Is there any sort of plan to try to protect large groups from vehicles, especially when we don't really know the route?

[39:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2362) Understandably, it can be difficult. Well, we were. Grateful that, you know, in the midst of this effort by the Trump administration to create chaos that we were able to get through yesterday without mass arrests or life-altering harm. The coordination between the organizers and the Chicago Police Department is one that we're going to continue to work to strengthen

[39:58](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2398) because, to your point, there were a number of organizers that, though it was structured, there has to be better coordination, and that's something that we will work on. Deputy Mayor, do you want to add anything else to that? Yeah, absolutely. So thank you for the question, Sabrina. Of course, after every large incident, we do have to actually report to get a better sense of what we can improve. Nobody obviously expects someone to do what they did yesterday, So we'll make improvements on that. We already had a meeting this morning with some of our team on additional resources we'll need in place.

[40:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2434) We've been in contact directly with the governor's office about some of the support they can provide as well. So, again, our teams are constantly thinking about ways to evolve and make sure folks are able to protest safely and our police are able to do their jobs. So that's what we'll continue to do on this one as well. Hi. I guess this would be for Christina Passione's address here in Gatewood. In terms of when ICE says they're going to have an action, what is the protocol for CPD and what is an appropriate role for them?

[41:05](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2465) I was told by an activist today that under the Trust Act it is not appropriate for them to cut off streets or do crowd control. Is that your understanding? Basically, what's the CPD's role when ICE comes in? Let me just start off by saying that, and thank you for that question, we are a welcoming city. And that ordinance is the law of the land, the Illinois Trust Act. It's the law of the land, which simply states that our local law enforcement will not coordinate or engage or behave as federal agents.

[41:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2499) Now, if there's a federal warrant that is available, then that provides space for a different type of assessment. You know, as far as the role and the responsibility of our police department, it is to ensure that protesters can do can can live out the Constitution safely. That is their responsibility. They also have a responsibility to ensure that, you know,

[42:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2529) in the event there are actions that are moving, that it is effectively coordinated, right, because we don't want anyone to get injured. And so there's a certain element. I don't know what this person's definition of crowd control is, but I can tell you as mayor of the city of Chicago, I want to make sure that whether that crowd is 5,000 or 5,000 or 50,000, that they're protected. That is the role and the responsibility of our police department.

[42:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2562) I don't know if they have to add anything else to that. Thank you for that. Okay, and so given that the CPD was there, ICE claims that they had final orders of removal for every one of the people they took. I FOIA'd for those and have not gotten them from ICE yet. Is it your understanding that they did have those orders of removal? Look, it's a great question. I don't know if anybody up here can answer that. Look, we're not federal agents. We don't represent that jurisdiction. What I can say is that as someone who does represent 2.8 million people, that the president of the United States of America setting human traps, it's still unconscionable.

[43:28](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2608) And I know Chicago appreciates our position of being a welcoming city. We do. You know, as far as any of those final orders, that's beyond our jurisdiction. So I can just confirm those were not presented to city officials? I don't know. They're not required to do that, I don't believe. So, you know, we'll have to get back with you on that.

[43:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2639) Because I want to be thoughtful here because I don't want anyone to believe that somehow we are in coordination with the federal government. They're not just showing up. They're just showing up with tanks and setting human traps. There is no coordination between the city of Chicago and the federal government. There isn't, not particularly on this issue. We've got to go. Monica, we've got to keep going. Monica, we've got to keep going. My question is for Chief Christina. I would like to explain how the city of Chicago is preparing for the great protests this

[44:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2674) next Saturday, and what have you heard from ICE? What can we expect in the next weeks in terms of operations? Sería mejor si el deputy mayor Ponce de León puede contestar, porque ella está en comunicación con las organizaciones. ¿Puedes repetir la pregunta? ¿Cómo se está preparando la ciudad de Chicago para hacerle frente a las próximas protestas este próximo sábado?

[45:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2704) Bueno, primeramente, como se ha dicho esta mañana, the city is preparing to be safe that people have the capacity and the right to go to protest in a safe way, taking into account the security of the community. So, with the police, there will be a way that they follow the rules of the welcome ordinance, follow the rules of the state

[45:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2735) of the Illinois Trust Act, and, at the same time, protect the people who are protesting. But, also, taking into account, as the Attorney said, that sometimes there are people who break the laws, that cause damage, there may be violence, and they will have to be prepared for that. In question of what can happen in these days that continue, we have basically confirmed, publicly said,

[46:05](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2765) dicho verdad que va a haber redadas tipo como lo que sucedió en los ángeles pueden empezar mañana puede ser en esos días que vienen y también nosotros no podemos interferir con el trabajo de ice pero tenemos que y ni colaborar con ellos verdad solamente ver la manera de seguir protegiendo al pueblo de la ciudad de chicago mencionó anteriormente que están trabajando con las organizaciones cuénteme qué están haciendo específicamente bueno hablamos diariamente con with the leaders of the organizations like ICER, the Resurrection Project, OCAD,

[46:40](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2800) because we know that they are in the fight, they are informing the people of their rights, the resources they have for them, and they are also organizing protests, demonstrations, in a peaceful way. They want to fight against what is happening at the national level, but to do it in a way that does not put in danger to the people that are. Y tenemos que agradecer que están tomando sus riesgos. Ellos mismos, muchos son impactados y afectados personalmente.

[47:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2832) Nosotros queremos apoyarlos de una manera que también respeta lo que son las leyes de la ciudad y el trabajo de la policía de la ciudad de Chicago. Thank you. We will continue to organize collectively. Thank you. Mayor, good afternoon. Good afternoon. Block Club reported today that Uber overcharged customers $1.8 million in a downtown congestion fee that was collected by the city. The company is now asking the city to pay them back because the company paid back its customers.

[47:43](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2863) Should the city do that? We will be reviewing Mary Richardson-Laurie Corporation Council. We'll be reviewing the allegations set forth by Uber and respond. You might be aware that we already have an active suit associated with Uber, so we will review those specifics and respond accordingly. Gotcha. And there's already a handful of city fees on Uber rides. I understand the measure to close the fiscal cliff that did not pass would have been a new 10 percent tax on all Uber rides in Chicago.

[48:15](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2895) Ubers have gotten more expensive. Do you think these surcharges and city fees have gone too far? Or could we place even more on these on Uber? Which fiscal? You're talking about the transit? Okay, I just want to make sure that we're clear. I believe that the state of Illinois, working in collaboration with the city and the county and really the entire state, Finding ways to ensure that public transportation is affordable, reliable, and safe,

[48:46](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2926) that is the collective responsibility and the role that I believe that we all have. You know, as far as any specific revenue proposal, again, I've stated it in multiple ways and multiple times that we have an unfair structure in the state of Illinois where the ultra-rich that benefit from our city services have to take more responsibility, right?

[49:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2959) I mean, our region alone, economically, we drive this state, and 87% of the overall ridership or even economic prowess of our transportation system is right here in this region. Everybody benefits from Chicago. Everybody benefits. So there has to be a more collective responsibility in this moment to ensure that that benefit is still available and that the responsibility of that benefit is equitably distributed. Thank you, Matt.

[49:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=2990) Thanks, Matt. We've got to keep going. Sorry. Thanks for coming up. Good afternoon. Good afternoon, Mark. Given the commander-in-chief's voodoo sense of rule of law, how concerned are you that this whole thing is going to escalate to the point that he's going to declare a warlike emergency and therefore suspend habeas corpus with the result being that the 14th Amendment and due process just go out the door,

[50:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3027) which is provided in the Alien Enemies Act. Well, it's clear that that's what he's doing. Those are his intentions, right? You know, what I find interesting, though, is that, you know, you asked about how worried or concerned this is where this is so pharisaical, right, because the same individuals that that are worried that government is too big. Like, you know, this president and his party, you know, are sending unmasked, I'm sorry, masked men with war weaponry, you know, into cities and creating checkpoints in cities and disappearing people without the due process, right?

[51:13](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3073) I mean, he's already doing that. This is not, this is no longer a threat. He's doing it, you know. and, you know, the same people who are supposedly concerned about government overreach and civil liberties, they're doing it. What our response has to be is to ensure that, you know, we protect, you know, people's basic fundamental rights. That's why I said before, Mark, you're either for the Constitution or you're against it. And, you know, you have people who are lining up the ultra-rich to extract more out of this economy.

[51:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3108) putting poor people and working people in desperate states and trying to create chaos to create division within community groups. And we're saying enough is enough in Chicago. Coming after vulnerable people, no matter who they are, is a threat to all of us. And so that's why we're going to continue to work to build a safe, affordable city, but also to ensure that we're protecting the rights of all of our residents. Thank you for that question. And given what's happening to Ross Baraka now, how inoculated are you from going the same way, whether you're personally there or not, to uphold Sanctuary City status or doing it from your office?

[52:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3154) It's a great question. Look, I don't believe this is about Sanctuary City solely. It's not. I mean, I think that's a component of it. This is not just about Sanctuary City. Again, this is about our fundamental right to be able to live peacefully in a nation that has yet realized its full potential. You know, as far as my own personal inoculation or how I show up in this moment, unafraid, unbossed, unbought, I'm Chicago.

[53:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3189) We stay ready. Don't be scared. And you know what, Mark? You can clock that, too. Good afternoon, Mayor. Last week, we reported that ICE subpoenaed the clerk's office for the personal information of City Key applicants, many of whom are immigrants. Mayor, what's your reaction overall to the federal government going after this info? And what should the future of City Key be in light of this risk? Thank you for the question.

[53:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3222) We responded to that request for information, and we respectfully declined within the bounds of the law, given the privacy issues and specifically the exposure of groups like domestic violence victims, which would have been exposed had that information been provided, which would have been in contravention to their rights. We will continue to monitor activity. all administrative warrants, as we are doing now, and we've put a process in place should we receive future administrative warrants from this administration.

[54:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3258) Mayor, can I also just get you to opine on just the overall tactic of the federal government going after this data? It's bad, and it's wrong. Since you responded to ISIG, you won't comply, have you received communications from them, And is there any world, such as a right of contempt of court charge, where the city would turn these documents over? The issuance of an administrative warrant is just that administratively it's not a court-ordered process. Should they move towards a court setting, we will respond in kind.

[54:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3292) But we have provided a response to them on that specific issue. As we have in some other categories, we produce documents that we do think we're obligated to produce. But with respect to city key, we don't believe such an obligation exists. Hey, Mayor. Hey. Following up on Justin's question, what do you want to see passed in this rideshare worker ordinance? Specifically, do you support forcing Uber and Lyft to pay drivers as much as the ordinance is seeking? Well, look, the reason why we're bringing everyone to the table is so that we have a policy that works for industry and the workers.

[55:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3327) That's always my drive, whether it's paid time off, whether it's, you know, $11 billion of new investments on the southeast side of Chicago, that those impacted by the policy see their values attached in whatever product we produce. So we're going to continue to work with industry and ensure that their voice is heard at the table. That's probably unique. I know that hasn't always been the practice of the fifth floor.

[55:57](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3357) I can tell you firsthand, when previous administrations made decisions about my existence, they didn't necessarily have voices like mine at the table. So I'm very sensitive to that. But we also have to make sure that we're doing everything that we can to ensure that people have a good wage so that they can continue to live in this beautiful city. Switching gears, the argument we've heard from protesters at the ICE office last week is that CPD helped ICE out because they assisted with traffic control. If they weren't helping ICE keep the streets clear,

[56:28](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3388) then ICE would have had to dedicate more agents to do that themselves. Do you think that argument makes sense? It's the job of the local police department to keep people safe. That's their job. That's what I think about every single day. I hope this isn't seen as a stretch but just from a liability perspective especially Mary Richardson and Laurie and I we deal with this all the time that in some instances where government is responsible for

[57:02](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3422) or has been made responsible for certain accidents that have occurred that has created some level of weighted burden, right? And so it's not a coordinated effort to see families deported and separated. Let's just pause for a second.

[57:33](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3453) This is what we're talking about. There's what Trump is doing. That's our problem. It's what Trump is doing. Trump is disappearing people. Trump is militarizing forces. It's what he's doing. What our local police department has a responsibility to do is that when people assemble, that they are protected so that their rights are ensured. That's the role that I have as the mayor of the city of Chicago, is to ensure that the First Amendment is protected.

[58:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3484) Now, is there room to continue to review our practices? Of course, this is unprecedented. But we have one clear opposition in this country right now. One. One. That's my focus. We're going to ensure equity and justice is maintained in this city. That he can come after us in any form in which he pleases. How we show up for one another, that's what's most critical here.

[58:40](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3520) It's not just immigration. He's trying to erase black history from our collective story as Americans. You know, here's the same person who is cutting off food and medicine to people. All I'm saying is, look what else he's doing. We have to be able to keep our eye on everything. He is deranged and unwell.

[59:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3550) It's important that we remain focused on who our opposition is, but we'll continue to review all of our practices to ensure that people of this city know that they are loved and protected and supported. Good afternoon. Am I it? I guess I'm it, right? Kind of a follow-up to Charlie's question about if Trump sends military here. I mean, is there anything you guys can do? Would you file legal action against the administration? I know the state of California has. I mean, what will you do if the military is sent here?

[59:41](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3581) Look, I spoke with, as I said earlier, I spoke with the governor directly. I spoke with board president Greg Winkle. We're all, you know, committed to ensuring that the city, the county, the state as a whole, that we maintain, you know, the sensibilities of our democracy, right, the ability for us to freely express and express, you know, protests. That's fundamental to our democracy. You know, as far as any particular action that the city or the state or the county or what we would do, particularly as a city, this is a necessary fight for all of us to be able to push back.

[1:00:24](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3624) Whether we use the courts or whether we continue to protest and raise our voices, dissent matters in this moment. Look, he is abusing his power. We warn people, though. You all know we warn people. I've been saying this for months before the November election, that there are those in this country who have not accepted the results of the Civil War.

[1:00:56](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3656) And it's a war on our culture. It's a war on our democracy. It's a war on our humanity. I am counting on all of Chicago to resist in this moment, because whatever particular vulnerable group is being targeted today, another group will be next. Now, look, I know that there is an effort to divide us in this moment, but none of us are immune from this disease.

[1:01:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3695) So we'll do everything in our local power. We'll work with everyone to ensure that our city is the vibrant place, the diverse place that it has been. And shifting gears to CPS, as you know, the school board is meeting right now, and they're expected at the end to choose an interim CEO. If it is Magdalene King, who is part of your administration, do you think it's a good choice given the fact that she has some issues on her personnel record?

[1:02:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3728) and if she is the choice with those issues on her personal record, what kind of message do you think that sends to the CPS community? Well, right now the message that's being sent to the CPS community is that, you know, unfortunately we have an outgoing person who just refused to manage. You know, the budget that was put forward last year, as we told people,

[1:02:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3771) It was just, it wasn't a real one. It was just make-believe, just speculation. It was lazy. As the board makes a decision on who the right person is to lead our district through this transition, it has to be someone that reflects the values that I've fought for my entire education career. That's the thing that's most important here. But should that person have violations on their personnel record?

[1:03:25](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3805) The person has to reflect my values. and my values are we have to have a school district that works for every single child. Now, look, I'm not going to get into any speculation around, you know, who the final person will be, but I do know that there was a very thorough process, as I directed the board members to go through, to vet, and to take that thorough process before the democratic body. and democracy at this point in our city's history is probably more important than it's ever been.

[1:04:01](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3841) So we're going to have a school district that maintains class sizes that are smaller and manageable, libraries and librarians, social workers and counselors. We're going to make sure that we have a school district that provides extracurricular support and protects the LGBTQ community, the immigrant community, and black history, veteran educators. That's the school district that people voted for, and that's the school district in which we are transitioning into.

[1:04:33](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0?t=3873) And I'm looking forward to, as we build a school district that reflects those values, that we have a leadership team that is committed to doing the hard work to ensure that our values are also reflected in how we invest in people. All right, thank you all very much. You all have been great today. Thank you.

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Source: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/P-loVbqPMH0 · Chicago Politics, an independent tracker of the Chicago City Council. Guide for agents: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/llms.txt