Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson defended his recent comments regarding “assaults” on immigrants during a Tuesday news conference, following the burial of 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago student Sheridan Gorman. The comments initially drew criticism due to their timing and context.

Controversial Rally Comments

At a “No Kings” rally held in Chicago on Saturday, Mayor Johnson vowed to halt “assaults” against immigrants. This statement coincided with Gorman’s funeral, leading to immediate backlash from some community members and observers. He stated, “We have end the assaults against immigrants,” and emphasized the need for active participation in the democratic process.

Policy Defenses

Johnson also highlighted executive orders aimed at limiting cooperation between Chicago and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He stated, “We have signed multiple executive orders to force ICE out of the city of Chicago.”

Refusal to Apologize

When questioned by a reporter on Tuesday about a potential apology to Gorman’s parents, Mayor Johnson avoided a direct response. He acknowledged the tragedy of losing a child, stating, “Burying a child is something that no parent should have to do.”

He continued, “The tragedy that occurred is one that, quite frankly — it challenges us to do better to ensure that we are protecting people.” Johnson reiterated his commitment to protecting both working people and the immigrant community.

Previous Questioning and Policy Context

This was not the first time Johnson faced questions about his policies in relation to the case. During a previous news conference last week, he responded indirectly to a similar question about apologizing for policies that allowed the suspect to be in the country.

“Once again, I believe that we’re all grieving the loss of Sheridan and other folks who have lost their lives because of senseless violence,” Johnson said. He then pointed to the SAFE-T Act and the city’s welcoming city ordinance, noting the latter was enacted 40 years ago and the former under a Republican governor.

Details of the Alleged Crime

Prosecutors allege that Jose Medina-Medina, 25, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, hid behind a lighthouse before approaching Gorman and her friends and firing a weapon indiscriminately on March 19. He has been charged with murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and illegal possession of a weapon.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed Medina-Medina entered the country illegally during the Biden administration and was subsequently released. He was previously arrested in 2023 for shoplifting at a Macy’s, failing to appear for subsequent court dates, resulting in an active arrest warrant.

Family's Response

Gorman’s family strongly criticized the mayor’s initial response, stating, “What happened to Sheridan cannot be reduced to a ‘senseless tragedy.’ Sheridan was our daughter. She was 18 years old…She should be here.” They called for accountability and honesty regarding the circumstances surrounding her death.

Suspect's Travel

According to The Chicago Tribune, Medina-Medina’s lawyer stated that the suspect was bused to Chicago from Texas after illegally crossing the border, despite requesting to be sent to Colombia. The governor’s office has stated they have no record of busing Medina-Medina.

Johnson’s office has declined to provide further comment.