Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem rejected calls to pause federal immigration enforcement for Halloween in the Chicago area. At a news conference, Noem stated, “No, we’re absolutely not willing to put on pause any work that we will do to keep communities safe.” In separate remarks reported by The Hill, Noem said agents would be “out on the streets in full force” and activities would increase “to make sure kids are safe.”
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The dispute stems from a request by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who urged federal authorities to scale back operations. Pritzker argued that families, including children who come “to trick or treat” at community events “deserve to spend Halloween without fear.” He asked for a pause so children could celebrate without the risk of confrontation.
What does Noem say about the enforcement?
Noem pointed to arrests tied to a regional operation she described as “Midway Blitz.”
“Since the beginning of Midway Blitz, ICE and CBP and our state partners have arrested more than 3,000 illegal aliens, including rapists, murderers and gang members that have been brought to justice,” she said. “If you are here driving on our streets illegally and our highways, you are endangering our citizens and your days are numbered.”
How is DHS responding to criticism from Illinois?
DHS firmly rejected Pritzker’s request. In a statement to The Hill, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said that “those who are here legally and are not breaking other laws have nothing to fear.” McLaughlin called the governor’s claims that agents target schools, hospitals and churches false.
The department accused Pritzker of “going out of his way to smear the law enforcement officers of DHS, who are attempting to clean up the rampant crime he facilitated.”
What is Pritzker alleging about recent incidents?
Pritzker referenced a Halloween-season neighborhood parade where federal agents deployed a chemical agent. Neighbors said several children were hit with tear gas and U.S. citizens were among those handcuffed, according to local accounts summarized in coverage. He framed the moment as a test of public safety around children and urged federal leaders to step back during holiday activities.
“Under the color of law, invading peaceful neighborhoods, no criminal targets,” Pritzker said. “This wasn’t happening before the Trump administration. Now, U.S. federal law enforcement are attacking good and decent people unprovoked, with no explanation.”
What judicial oversight is in place?
A federal judge ordered Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino to appear in court on weekdays through Nov. 5 to provide daily updates on operations in and around Chicago. That requirement adds short-term judicial scrutiny as Halloween events proceed and as state and federal officials continue to disagree on tactics.
Noem said DHS will not pause activities and frames the effort as focused on serious offenders. Illinois officials are pressing for limits around family events and continued court monitoring of tactics used in neighborhoods through early November. Both sides say safety is the priority.
