Senator Tammy Duckworth Criticizes Federal Actions in Chicago
During an interview on “Face the Nation” aired on October 5, 2025, Senator Tammy Duckworth expressed strong criticism of President Trump‘s recent decision to federalize 300 National Guardsmen in Illinois. Duckworth highlighted concerns that these actions are unnecessary and counterproductive, especially given the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Chicago.
Federalization of National Guard Sparks Controversy
Senator Duckworth clarified that the activated National Guardsmen will be from Illinois, stating, “they’re not going to be coming from out of state.” She emphasized that these are local service members, noting, “they’ll be homegrown Illinoisans, and they’re our brothers and sisters, our neighbors.” Despite the governor’s opposition, Duckworth called the federalization a misuse of the National Guard, arguing that it does not address the root issues of crime.
In her remarks, Duckworth criticized President Trump for diverting $800 million from crime prevention efforts, suggesting that if he genuinely wanted to tackle crime, he should restore funding to local police. “If President Trump really wanted to fight crime, then maybe he should stop defunding the police,” she stated.
Concerns Over Immigration Enforcement
The senator also addressed the escalating situation in Chicago, where protests related to immigration policies have intensified. She mentioned a recent incident in the Brighton Park area, where ICE agents shot a woman. Duckworth rejected the claims made by Secretary Noem that ICE acted in self-defense, asserting, “the Trump administration lies.” She urged the public to remain calm during protests while documenting any aggressive actions taken by law enforcement, indicating a need for transparency in the current climate.
“Remember that they are zip-tying children… They are using Gestapo tactics in Chicago,” said Duckworth.
Duckworth criticized ICE’s tactics as aggressive and intimidating, claiming they are targeting vulnerable populations. “They are raiding apartment blocks in the middle of the night, separating children from their families,” she said. The senator called for accountability and transparency in the actions of federal agents, urging citizens to document interactions with law enforcement.
In response to broader national security claims made by the administration, Duckworth dismissed allegations of organized left-wing terrorism as unfounded. “No, not at all. This is—it’s simply not happening,” she stated, reiterating her belief that ICE agents are the ones acting aggressively against ordinary citizens.
Critique of Military Standards for Women
Duckworth also touched on comments made by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who suggested that military standards should be gender-neutral and based on male benchmarks. The senator, a veteran and former lieutenant colonel, rejected this notion, asserting that qualified women have proven their capabilities in combat roles. “Our military could not do its job of protecting America and keeping us safe without the women who serve in the military,” she emphasized.
As the discussion concluded, Duckworth reiterated the importance of supporting local law enforcement through appropriate funding rather than federal intervention. She called on the federal government to restore the funding that has been cut, highlighting the detrimental effects on community safety and security.
Senator Duckworth’s comments reflect a broader frustration among local leaders regarding federal approaches to crime and immigration, and her insights shed light on the ongoing challenges facing communities in Chicago and beyond.
