Last Updated on January 9, 2025

Steve Bannon and Todd Bensman targeted Chicago, labeling it the frontline in the battle against sanctuary cities in a recent episode of WarRoom with Steve Bannon.

Bannon, always the provocateur, described the city as a proving ground for President Trump’s expected executive orders on immigration. The two held nothing back in a heated Thursday discussion on Bannon’s War Room.

Trump’s return to the White House, they implied, would be nothing short of a political earthquake. “Chicago, brace yourself. The fight is coming,” Bannon warned.

“Chicago is going to be the center of this fight,” Bannon said, adding that it won’t end there. “Sanctuary cities, deep blue rebellion—this is where it begins.”

Bannon and Bensman reacted to a clip of Tom Homan, President Trump’s incoming Border Czar, at AmFest.

https://twitter.com/catmurphy209/status/1870911701169893444

Homan delivered a powerful critique of sanctuary cities particularly Chicago, and their policies. He argued that sanctuary city policies undermine public safety and embolden illegal immigration. Homan emphasized that such policies protect criminal aliens at the expense of law-abiding citizens and called for strong federal action to address these issues.

Homan supported the idea of using Chicago as a test case for decisive action against sanctuary cities, aligning with Bannon’s and Bensman’s vision for immigration reform under Trump’s leadership.

Bensman, a journalist and national security expert, laid out a stark vision for Trump’s first days back in the White House. “I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see CBP1 and all those parole programs immediately canceled,” he said, referring to controversial policies that expedite immigrant entry. “They’re going to need manpower. They might even deputize Texas law enforcement to bolster efforts.”

Bannon was quick to highlight the urgency. “Day one, Todd. Trump’s not waiting. These orders are locked and loaded.” He added, “The city of Chicago is where the message has to be sent. It’s not just about policy. It’s about signaling strength.”

Chicago, a self-declared sanctuary city, has long been a flashpoint in the national immigration debate. The city’s refusal to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement has made it a symbol of resistance—and a target for Trump’s envisioned crackdown.

Bensman hinted at plans to confront sanctuary city policies head-on. “I’ve heard through the grapevine about emergency declarations. Military facilities could be repurposed for detention. They need to divert personnel to deportations.”

Bannon nodded approvingly, pushing the idea further. “It’s not just about removing illegal immigrants. It’s about holding those responsible accountable. CEOs, CFOs—anyone harboring or employing undocumented workers should face the music.”

Bannon reflected on the anger and frustration brewing in Chicago. As covered in the WarRoom previously, many residents are fed up with the city’s policies, which they see as prioritizing illegals over citizens.

Bensman addressed the public sentiment. “Chicagoans are mad, and rightly so. They’re bearing the brunt of this policy. Trump’s orders will resonate with them.”

Bannon and Bensman pressed for Trump’s immediate action to set the tone for the administration. “The first few days are crucial,” Bensman stressed. “It’s all about messaging—downstream into Mexico and beyond. That’s why people like Homan are everywhere, making sure the message is clear.”

Bannon agreed. “Walk a few CEOs out in cuffs. Show that no one’s untouchable. It’s about deterrence, Todd. Powerful deterrence.”

As the conversation wrapped, Bannon’s defiant tone rang clear. “Chicago is the battlefield. This isn’t just about immigration—it’s about reclaiming America. And it starts here.”

Follow more of this discussion at WarRoom.org and check out this WarRoom segment featuring Todd Bensman:

Todd Bensman: What To Expect Of Tom Homan’s Deportation Strategy, No More Harboring Illegal Migrants