Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is set to testify in Washington next week to defend the city’s sanctuary policies. Representative James Comer, who will lead the hearing, has been vocal about his opposition, criticizing the policies of mayors from Chicago, Denver, and New York City. Comer claims these sanctuary policies shield illegal immigrants from enforcement and compromise public safety.

The director of the Community Roundtable, Cotta, weighed in on the issue, emphasizing that Mayor Johnson’s approval rating is currently at an all-time low, below 7%. Many residents of Chicago have repeatedly expressed opposition to sanctuary policies, yet the mayor appears to prioritize the needs of migrants over his constituents.

Mayor Johnson has been conducting a tour across Chicago, particularly in Black communities, in an effort to regain voter support. However, this effort may prove unsuccessful, as his administration, along with the city council, recently approved an $800 million bond. This decision will ultimately cost the city $2.2 billion over time and has negatively impacted Chicago’s credit rating, bringing it below national standards. Johnson has justified this move by arguing that past mayors have taken similar actions, a rationale that critics view as irresponsible and shortsighted. Voters who supported him expected fiscal responsibility, and many now feel betrayed by his handling of city finances.

The financial mismanagement extends beyond the city level. Illinois, under state leadership, has significantly underestimated its expenditures on migrant healthcare, pushing the state budget deficit to $2.2 billion. Critics argue that both Chicago and the state government are failing to prioritize the needs of their residents, who continue to face economic hardships while funds are directed toward accommodating migrants.

Beyond the financial concerns, education policy in Illinois has also come under scrutiny. The debate over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives has escalated, with the Illinois State Superintendent declaring that the state will maintain its commitment to DEI values. The superintendent acknowledged potential pushback from the federal government but insisted that Illinois would not abandon these principles.

This stance has sparked a broader discussion on whether Illinois residents are willing to risk losing federal education funding over DEI policies. Many residents, including Cotta, acknowledge the importance of DEI initiatives but also recognize their limitations. As a Black woman, Cotta expressed that while she supports DEI in principle, it has not delivered the expected benefits for Black communities. Only a small fraction of Black residents have reaped its rewards, leading some to question whether these programs are effectively serving their intended purpose.

Cotta suggested that instead of outright eliminating DEI policies, state and federal leaders should engage in dialogue to find a middle ground. She believes that a compromise could allow both sides to maintain their core values while ensuring that federal funding for education remains intact.

As these debates unfold, the future of Chicago’s sanctuary policies, fiscal management, and education policies remain uncertain. Mayor Johnson faces mounting pressure to balance his administration’s priorities with the demands of Chicago residents, many of whom feel increasingly disillusioned with his leadership.