A controversial statement by Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson has sparked outrage, comparing “illegal aliens” to Black Americans being called “slaves.”

Mayor Johnson’s Controversial Comparison

During a recent press conference, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson sparked controversy by equating the term “illegal alien” to the historical dehumanization of Black Americans during slavery. This comment was made in response to a reporter’s question about the financial burden on Chicago’s taxpayers due to the influx of migrants. Johnson dismissed the term as fictional, sparking outrage among many who see this as a distortion of legal terminology.

OMG 😳 Now Chicago is comparing the word “slaves “ that 650,000 men lost their lives fighting in a civil war .. to calling actual illegal individuals that are committing a crime by being in this country .. to undocumented individuals! Chicago better wake up before you don’t have… pic.twitter.com/shZNCDJwMv

— Mary❤️🇺🇸 (@patriotmary4) October 25, 2025

Legal Terminology and Immigration Policy

The term “illegal alien” is not a fictional construct but is embedded in U.S. law, specifically in Title 8 of the U.S. Code. It defines any foreign national present in the U.S. without lawful admission. Critics argue that Johnson’s attempt to rebrand this as “undocumented individuals” is a linguistic maneuver to obscure the realities of illegal immigration. This issue remains a core concern for conservatives, who emphasize the need for clear and enforceable immigration policies.

Johnson’s statements have drawn attention to Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city. Under his leadership, the city has spent hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars to support the migrant population, while crime and essential service cuts continue to affect legal residents.

This is what DEI hires gets you.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson:
We don’t have illegal aliens. That’s a Sci-Fi Term

Reporter:
No… “That’s the legal term.”

Johnson:
“We’ll listen, the legal term for my people were slaves. Do you want me to use that term too?”

Huh???… pic.twitter.com/obiMVZU0UG

— Denise (@Likeshesays) October 26, 2025

Public Reaction and Criticism

The public response to Johnson’s comparison was swift and critical. Social media platforms erupted with posts mocking and condemning his remarks. Many see this as another example of Democratic leaders manipulating language to shift focus away from the detrimental impacts of their policies, such as increased crime and strained public resources.

The debate over immigration terminology continues to be a flashpoint in the broader discussion of national policy under the Trump administration, highlighting the tension between conservative values and progressive agendas.