East Central Reporter

Chris Miller, an Illinois State House representative for District 101, has attributed the responsibility for Chicago's preparedness for protests to Governor J.B. Pritzker. According to Miller, this is due to Pritzker's protection of illegal immigrants in the state.

"Pritzker is to blame for protecting illegal immigrants in Illinois and needs to be held accountable for his actions," said Chris G. Miller, State Representative for 101st District (R), according to Facebook. "He has created chaos in our state and it's costing taxpayers billions. LA is being destroyed and Chicago is bracing for the same outcome from "protesters" because Pritzker and Johnson will allow chaos to unfold. Remember, Pritzker said “These Republicans cannot know a moment of peace."

Protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids have been occurring nationwide, including in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Austin. This information was reported by WTTW and shared by State Representative Miller on his Facebook page. In Chicago, demonstrators gathered during rush hour, occupying public spaces. A 66-year-old woman sustained a broken arm after being struck by a vehicle that drove into the crowd; the incident is currently under investigation. Additionally, unions rallied in Washington, D.C., on June 9 demanding the release of David Huerta, who had been arrested on June 6. Demonstrators, including U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, marched past the Department of Justice building. Huerta was released on bond later that night.

Screenshot of State Representative Chris Miller's June 11 Facebook post | State Representative Chris Miller's Facebook page

According to CBS reports, 17 individuals were arrested during protests in Chicago on June 10. Four protesters face felony charges such as aggravated battery of a peace officer and criminal damage to government property exceeding $500. Ten others face misdemeanor charges, while one person was cited for possession of paint or markers with intent to deface property. Despite some clashes between police and demonstrators and damage to several police cars, CBS noted that the protests—beginning at Federal Plaza—were largely peaceful. Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledged the need for collaboration between the police department and protest organizers and indicated that this issue would be addressed.

Miller referred to Governor Pritzker’s April keynote speech delivered in New Hampshire at the Democratic Party’s McIntyre-Shaheen 100 Club Dinner as reported by Fox 8 news. In his speech, Pritzker said: "Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now." He continued: "These Republicans cannot know a moment of peace," adding that they must understand "we will fight their cruelty with every megaphone and microphone that we have."

Chris Miller has been serving in the Illinois State House of Representatives since his election in 2019. An Illinois native from Hindsboro, he operates as a third-generation cattle farmer and grain operator. He holds an associate degree in agriculture from Lake Land College and a Bachelor of Science in Education.