Macon Reporter

Regan Deering, a Republican candidate vying to represent the 88th House District in Illinois, raised concerns about a plan reportedly being considered by high-level Chicago Democrats. The plan in question involves relocating illegal immigrants into various downstate communities.

“High-level Chicago Democrats are floating a plan to bring illegal immigrants into our communities-Bloomington and Decatur included,” Deering said on Facebook. “Chicago has a crisis of their own making because their failed politicians are happy to virtue signal without a plan, and they expect us to bail them out. No way!”

The potential influx of illegal immigrants into Chicago has been under discussion for some time. Former CEO of Chicago Public Schools and former candidate for Chicago Mayor, Paul Vallas proposed an alternative approach on Twitter.  He suggested that Gov. J.B. Pritzker should declare a “State of Emergency” due to the city’s handling of the migrant crisis. His proposal entails capping the number of new migrants, utilizing the National Guard’s 50 armories, and involving State Police to screen and temporarily house migrants before deciding their final destinations. 

Vallas is now serving as a Policy Adviser at Illinois Policy.

The relocation proposal has sparked controversy among residents living in areas selected for planned “Johnsonville” tent cities who have protested against Chicago's attempts to move undocumented immigrants into their communities. As a result, the opposition became significant enough that it prompted Chicago aldermen to consider implementing a referendum that would allow the city’s residents an opportunity to reconsider its “sanctuary” status.

Deering is campaigning for succession from state Rep. Dan Caulkins who decided not to run again for re-election. The 88th House District Deering hopes to represent includes McLean, Macon, Piatt, and DeWitt counties.