BROADVIEW, Ill. — In a significant move for immigration oversight, four Illinois Democrats visited a federal immigration processing center near Chicago, responding to recent legal changes that allow congressional access to such facilities. U.S. Representatives Danny Davis, Delia Ramirez, Jonathan Jackson, and Jesús “Chuy” Garcia explored the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) center in Broadview, previously criticized for holding detainees under what many describe as inhumane conditions.
Following a judge’s ruling last week that temporarily blocked former Trump administration regulations limiting congressional visits, the lawmakers were finally able to enter the facility, six months after being denied access. Representative Garcia noted, “We wanted to test whether there would be a violation of a court order reaffirming our rights to be here at any time.”
During their visit, the lawmakers observed fewer detainees than expected, with only two individuals in custody compared to about twenty the previous day. This comes amid a crackdown labeled “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has led to over 4,000 arrests in the Chicago area, according to ICE data.
While the delegation acknowledged some improvements had been made, such as inmates reportedly getting access to hot meals and legal counsel, they voiced concerns over inadequate privacy by toilets, limited shower facilities, and the absence of medical personnel. This was particularly troubling given the recent death of a detainee in a Michigan facility.
“This visit will not end our responsibility. We will follow up,” vowed Representative Jackson, ensuring continued scrutiny of conditions within the facility. An additional report from Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi highlighted that previous practices of overnight holding appear to have ceased.
Elsewhere, the scrutiny extended beyond Illinois, as New York congressmen also expressed alarm over conditions observed in their local ICE facilities. The push for better oversight reflects a growing urgency to address the humanitarian concerns emerging from immigration policies.
With congressional visits once again permitted, advocates hope that increased scrutiny will prompt lasting improvements at these centers.
