Rockford Sun

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood from Illinois has publicly criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson during a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform hearing. The meeting, which included mayors from various sanctuary cities, focused on their alleged failure to enforce federal immigration laws.

LaHood expressed his longstanding opposition to sanctuary city policies and their perceived negative impact on Illinois. He stated, "During my time as an elected official, I have strongly condemned the policy around sanctuary cities and the impact that it has had on the state of Illinois." According to LaHood, these policies have harmed the state's economy, increased crime rates, and endangered law-abiding citizens.

Addressing Mayor Johnson directly, LaHood commented on what he sees as a decline in Chicago under Johnson's leadership over the past two years. He remarked on rising crime rates across various neighborhoods in Chicago and declining morale among law enforcement officers. "Morale has never been lower with law enforcement and CPD," said LaHood, highlighting issues such as police officers leaving the force and businesses moving out of the city.

He further criticized Mayor Johnson for prioritizing spending taxpayer money on illegal immigrants over addressing other pressing financial concerns. "You are putting the interest of illegal immigrants above the interest of taxpayers in Chicago," said LaHood.

The hearing also included participation from Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Although not a member of the committee himself, Rep. LaHood was granted permission to speak at this session specifically to address his concerns with Mayor Johnson.

This hearing follows legal actions taken by former President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi against Illinois entities for non-compliance with federal immigration laws.