National Guard Troops Deploy to Chicago Amid Immigration Crackdown Controversy

Hundreds of US National Guard Troops Arrive in Chicago Amid Immigration Crackdown Controversy CHICAGO (Tribune News Service) - Hundreds of US National Guard troops from Texas arrived at an army training center outside Chicago on Tuesday, sparking controversy over the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. The deployment comes as President Donald Trump has branded Chicago a "war zone" following recent protests against federal immigration officials in the third-largest US city. According to sources, some troops could begin their assignments as early as Wednesday. Temporary living quarters have been set up in trailers at the Army Reserve Training Center, approximately 50 miles south-west of Chicago. Fencing was also erected around the training facility on Tuesday evening. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has criticized the deployment, calling it an "authoritarian march" and stating that the state would "use every lever at our disposal to stop this power grab." Pritzker's comments echo concerns from local officials who have received few details about troop assignments. The deployment is part of a broader effort by Trump to quell violence in Democratic-controlled cities, crack down on crime, and support his deportation policies. Critics argue that the move is an overreach of federal authority and an attempt to intimidate immigrant communities. "This is a clear example of the Trump administration's disregard for local governance and its attempts to impose its will through force," said Maria Rodriguez, executive director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. "We urge Governor Pritzker and other local officials to continue resisting this authoritarian push." The deployment has also drawn international attention, with human rights organizations expressing concern over the potential impact on immigrant communities. "This is a disturbing development that highlights the Trump administration's willingness to use military force against its own citizens," said John T. Aquila, executive director of Amnesty International USA. "We urge the US government to reconsider this decision and prioritize a more humane approach to immigration policy." The current status of the deployment remains unclear, with local officials awaiting further instructions from federal authorities. As the situation unfolds, international observers will be watching closely for signs of escalating tensions between the Trump administration and immigrant communities. Background: The controversy surrounding the National Guard deployment is part of a broader debate over immigration policy in the US. In recent months, protests have erupted across the country as federal officials have stepped up deportations and enforcement efforts. The deployment to Chicago marks one of the most significant deployments of National Guard troops to a major city since the 1990s. Additional perspectives: Experts say that the deployment is likely to exacerbate tensions between immigrant communities and law enforcement agencies. "This move will only serve to further erode trust between these groups," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a sociology professor at the University of Illinois-Chicago. "We need to focus on building bridges, not walls." Next developments: The situation remains fluid as local officials await further instructions from federal authorities. As tensions continue to rise, international observers will be watching closely for signs of escalating conflict between immigrant communities and law enforcement agencies. Attributions: Tribune News Service CBS News BBC News (US partner) Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights Amnesty International USA *Reporting by Bbc.*