Ohio's Republican Senator Bernie Moreno has sharply criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, calling his leadership ineffective and urging mayors nationwide to prioritize their constituents' well-being over obstructing President Trump's immigration policies. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Moreno questioned why mayors like Johnson are seemingly more concerned with "protecting criminal illegals" than addressing issues such as education, housing, and public safety within their own cities. He expressed confidence that voters will hold these mayors accountable for their actions.
Moreno didn't mince words, referring to Johnson as potentially "the worst mayor in American history" and a "bumbling idiot." He highlighted Johnson's vocal opposition to Trump's immigration enforcement measures, particularly the mayor's commitment to shielding undocumented individuals from ICE raids. The Chicago mayor's office responded to Moreno's comments by dismissing them as "ad hominem criticism."
Some Chicago residents share Moreno's concerns. P Rae Easley, a local resident and host of "Black Excellence Hour," expressed frustration with Johnson's stance during an appearance on "Fox & Friends First," arguing that undocumented immigrants place a financial burden on Chicago taxpayers.
Despite resistance from Johnson and other mayors, ICE operations have resulted in the deportation of numerous illegal immigrants since the start of the Trump administration. Moreno applauded these actions, stating that Trump recognizes the urgent need to restore safety and security, and is working swiftly to rectify the perceived damage done by the Biden administration's immigration policies.
The new administration's immigration crackdown has garnered bipartisan support in some instances, notably with the passage of the Laken Riley Act, which received backing from a significant number of House Democrats. Moreno views this as a sign that Democrats are increasingly willing to address illegal immigration. He emphasized the importance of legal immigration processes and criticized the exploitation of asylum claims by economic migrants.
Moreno recently introduced the Refugees Using Legal Entry Safely (RULES) Act, aimed at reforming the asylum system. He believes this legislation will provide a safe and orderly process for genuine refugees while ensuring economic migrants follow established procedures.
