Over 1,000 Illegal Immigrants Arrested In Trump’s ‘Operation Midway Blitz’

The Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Illinois has passed a milestone, with more than 1,000 arrests reported under “Operation Midway Blitz,” a sweeping federal push targeting violent illegal immigrants.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol reinforcements were deployed to the sanctuary state beginning Sept. 8. DHS officials confirmed the arrests include gang members, convicted sex offenders, child abusers, and repeat deportees.

“Our patriotic law enforcement officers are making these arrests despite working without pay because of the Democrats’ shutdown,” Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. “President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow continued violence or repeat offenders to terrorize our neighborhoods and victimize our children. Operation Midway Blitz is making Illinois safe again.”

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined agents on the ground in Broadview, Illinois, Friday. She posted video of being denied entry into the village’s municipal building, despite noting the town receives over $1 million annually in federal funds. “This is how JB Pritzker and his cronies treat our law enforcement. Absolutely shameful,” Noem wrote on X.

The ICE facility in Broadview has become a flashpoint in recent weeks. Rioters have attempted to block operations, prompting state and local police in riot gear to respond. Federal officials also stationed rooftop snipers for added security.

Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker slammed the operation, accusing DHS agents of intimidation. “The Trump Administration’s DHS officers appear to be carrying large weapons around downtown Chicago in camouflage and masks. This is not making anybody safer — it’s a show of intimidation, instilling fear in our communities and hurting our businesses,” Pritzker said.