Lake County Gazette

Vernon Township Republicans Chairman Jay Swidler expressed concerns over sanctuary policies implemented by Mayor Johnson and Governor Pritzker, stating that these policies defy federal law and endanger citizens. He emphasized that under President Trump's leadership, accountability is inevitable. Swidler made these remarks to the Lake County Gazette on January 27.

According to NPR, a Justice Department memo issued on January 21 warns state and local officials of potential federal prosecution for non-cooperation with immigration enforcement. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove directed prosecutors to pursue the most serious charges, reversing policies from the Biden era. The memo stresses prosecuting officials in sanctuary cities who obstruct immigration authorities, fail to share information, or harbor undocumented immigrants. This aligns Department of Justice (DOJ) policies with Trump’s executive actions. Cities like Chicago, which maintain sanctuary policies, could face legal action as immigrant communities prepare for possible large-scale raids.

The Center for Immigration Studies reported that President Trump’s planned deportation efforts face challenges from sanctuary jurisdictions—state or local governments that hinder Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. These jurisdictions refuse ICE detainers, impose restrictions, deny ICE access to detainees, or limit communication with federal immigration officers. The Center's report indicates that nearly eight million illegal immigrants, about 56% of the nationwide total, live in sanctuary jurisdictions. Approximately 530,000 of those illegal immigrants reside in Illinois, accounting for about 3.8% of the total number in the U.S.

The Chicago Sun-Times reported that border czar Tom Homan urged Mayor Johnson and Governor Pritzker to cooperate with immigration efforts during a Chicago GOP event on December 9. Homan, former acting head of ICE, criticized both leaders for their policies which he claims harm Chicago. His plan involves verifying asylum seekers’ status, targeting criminals, and arresting those harboring them. Homan warned that non-cooperation would lead to broader arrests and defended his plan as targeted and necessary for enforcing immigration laws. "Chicago’s in trouble because your mayor sucks and your governor sucks," Homan said.

Swidler was first elected as Chairman of the Vernon Township Republicans in 2024. According to the organization’s website, he focuses on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing party membership, and communicating party positions on issues important to Vernon Township voters.