ICE Director Slams Chicago Mayor Over 'Disgusting' Militarization Claims Amid Surge in Violence

In a fiery exchange that’s heating up the political landscape, Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons didn’t hold back when he slammed Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson for what he called a "disgusting" accusation. Johnson, a Democrat, claimed that President Donald Trump is weaponizing ICE as a "militarized force" to sow fear and anxiety. Lyons, visibly frustrated, countered that such rhetoric is not only offensive but also dangerously misguided.

Speaking on a popular morning show, Lyons defended the integrity of ICE officers, calling them some of the bravest individuals he’s ever worked with. He pointed the finger back at Chicago’s sanctuary policies, arguing that the city’s leadership is harboring criminal elements while criticizing the very agents tasked with upholding the law. It’s a classic case of pointing fingers while ignoring the mirror, isn’t it?

The tension between ICE and progressive leadership in deep-blue Chicago has only intensified since Trump’s return to the White House. Johnson’s sharp words echo earlier statements where he likened immigration enforcement to "terrorism" and even drew parallels to a Confederate victory in the Civil War—a comparison that’s as bold as it is inflammatory.

Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security dropped a bombshell statistic: assaults on ICE officers have skyrocketed by an astonishing 830% between January 21, 2025, and July 14, 2025, compared to the same period last year. This surge in violence, which coincides with Trump’s return to office, paints a grim picture of the risks these agents face—risks compounded by proposals from some Democrats to unmask ICE officers, a move critics argue would further endanger them.

In a poignant moment, four ICE officers stepped into the spotlight, unmasked, to share their side of the story. One officer, Celina, expressed immense pride in her work despite the personal dangers, a sentiment Lyons echoed by praising their courage. These agents know that showing their faces could lead to doxing or threats to their families, yet they stand firm, driven by a mission to protect the public.

This clash isn’t just about policy—it’s about perception, safety, and the very role of law enforcement in a polarized nation. As violence against ICE officers surges and rhetoric from both sides sharpens, one thing is clear: the debate over immigration enforcement is far from cooling down.