Mayor Brandon Johnson Signs ‘Right To Protest’ Order As Trump Admin Targets City

Democratic Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed a sweeping executive order Tuesday that seeks to fortify protest protections in Chicago.

The Trump administration launched “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago and across Illinois, targeting illegal migrants shielded by sanctuary policies. The “Right to Protest” order, which expands the city’s Protecting Chicago Initiative, directs the Chicago Police Department (CPD) to uphold First Amendment rights in coordination with local activists—even if federal agencies attempt to intervene.

“Chicago has long been a center of civic action, from the labor uprisings of the Haymarket era to the Civil Rights movement, and today is no different,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.

“The City of Chicago has proven time and time again that we can safeguard demonstrations of any size while protecting First Amendment rights. With this Executive Order, we affirm that Chicago will remain a place where democracy and freedom reign. Today, we proclaim that all residents and visitors can peacefully assemble, petition their government, and speak freely in our city. This executive action is about being proactive so that we are prepared for any possible large-scale demonstration in response to the increasingly reckless federal government.”

Under the new directive, if federal agencies interfere with lawful demonstrations, CPD must engage directly with organizers to develop alternative plans that still allow protestors to meet their goals. The plans will be required to comply with legal standards regarding time, place, and manner restrictions, while preserving public safety.

The order comes as the Trump administration intensifies scrutiny of Democratic-led cities. The Trump administration carried out large-scale illegal migrant crackdowns in Los Angeles