Chicago’s progressive mayor, Brandon Johnson, is pushing for the implementation of a $25 million program aimed at providing rent subsidies for undocumented immigrants. This initiative has drawn attention as some of Johnson’s liberal allies urge him to redirect funds away from other priorities like law enforcement.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Johnson is considering a plan to offer over 6,500 undocumented immigrants six months of rental assistance, resulting in an estimated cost of $25 million.
Both city and state taxpayers would contribute to the funding, as Johnson seeks assistance from the state government. Alongside the rent subsidies, Johnson aims to collaborate with the federal government to expedite work permits for undocumented immigrants, enabling them to support themselves once the subsidies expire.