A U.S. federal judge ordered the release of hundreds of migrants arrested in Chicago during immigration enforcement operations, marking a significant development in the ongoing national debate over border security. District Judge Jeffrey Cummings ruled on November 13, 2025, that detainees not deemed security risks could await immigration proceedings outside custody if posting $1,500 bond with monitoring measures like ankle bracelets.
Operation Midway Blitz Faces Scrutiny
The decision specifically applies to migrants arrested without warrants or probable cause under 'Operation Midway Blitz' – a series of 2025 raids that resulted in thousands of detentions and deportations. The National Immigrant Justice Center and American Civil Liberties Union successfully argued these arrests violated constitutional protections.
Administration Condemns Ruling
The Department of Homeland Security criticized the decision on social media, stating: "An ACTIVIST JUDGE is putting lives at risk by releasing 615 illegal aliens." This clash highlights deepening tensions between judicial authorities and executive branch enforcement strategies.
National Guard Deployment Disputes Continue
President Donald Trump's administration faces parallel legal challenges regarding National Guard deployments to Chicago and other Democratic-led cities. While troops have been operational in Los Angeles, Washington, and Memphis this year, federal courts continue blocking similar efforts in Portland and Chicago.
