Kristi Noem Criticizes Gov. JB Pritzker and Sanctuary Policies in Springfield, IL

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) — Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was in Springfield on Wednesday.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

She held a news conference surrounded by families that she says have been impacted by Illinois’ sanctuary policies.

Noem attacked Governor JB Pritzker saying those policies have unleashed violence on American citizens while shielding undocumented migrants.

“He largely overlooked all these crimes under the pretext of managing a sanctuary state,” Noem remarked. “[Pritzker] backed policies that hinder local law enforcement from collaborating with ICE officers to deliver justice to families.”

READ ALSO | Gov. JB Pritzker to testify to Congress on sanctuary policies, House Oversight Committee says

Pritzker released the following statement:

“Unlike Donald Trump and Kristi Noem, Illinois follows the law.

The Trump Administration is breaching the United States Constitution, depriving individuals of due process, and causing law-abiding neighbors, including U.S. citizen children, to disappear. Meanwhile, they fail to take significant steps to enhance public safety and deport violent offenders within a clear and lawful framework.

Stunts by Trump and Noem do not increase community safety or improve our immigration system. Illinois does not need to violate the Constitution or misuse authority to safeguard its residents. Like millions of Americans advocating for reasonable and compassionate immigration reform, I urge the Secretary to focus less on performing for Fox News and more on ensuring Homeland security.

Secretary Noem must have not realized she was visiting during Latino Unity Day where we come together celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our community. Today, Secretary Noem was met by a force stronger than her: the people of Illinois.

Illinoisans are sending a clear message to Trump’s lackeys that we will not let you mess with us without a resistance.”