During a recent episode of “Fox & Friends,” Chicago resident “P-Rae” Easley vocally criticized Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposal to allocate an additional $70 million of taxpayer funds towards aiding migrants, highlighting a deep-seated frustration among local taxpayers. Easley’s impassioned remarks underscored a sense of betrayal felt by longtime residents who believe their needs have been consistently overlooked in favor of funding for migrants.
Easley articulated her displeasure, stating, “It’s the most disrespectful thing we’ve ever encountered in our lives,” emphasizing how generations of families have contributed through property taxes only to see their money diverted to non-residents. She humorously yet pointedly thanked Mayor Johnson for uniting the city against his policies, comparing the collective dissent to the camaraderie seen during the Chicago Bulls’ 1996 championship run.
This dissatisfaction manifested strongly at a recent City Council meeting where Easley and other residents voiced their opposition to the mayor’s financial request. This public outcry is coinciding with a growing movement to potentially recall Mayor Johnson, reflecting widespread discontent with his administration’s priorities.
The City of Chicago has already invested approximately $300 million into migrant services including housing, food, and healthcare. The additional $70 million, as explained by Budget Director Annette Guzman, would come from the city’s 2022 fund balance. Yet, residents like Easley question why similar “emergency funds” have not been available for pressing local issues like education and public safety.
Easley’s comments also touched on broader national issues, expressing support for former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, which she believes could alleviate some of the city’s challenges by securing the southern border. Her call for Trump’s visit to Chicago underscores the political dimensions of the local discontent.
The incident and Easley’s remarks have tapped into a larger narrative about municipal governance, the allocation of public funds, and the political implications of immigration policies at a local level. As the debate continues, it is clear that Mayor Johnson’s policies have sparked a significant backlash, potentially influencing voter behavior in upcoming elections.