Upholding the Supremacy Clause

Trump’s Bold Deportation Actions in Chicago and Charlotte Are Restoring Law and Order

In a time when America’s immigration system has been strained to the breaking point by years of lax enforcement, President Trump’s second administration is taking decisive action to secure our borders and protect our communities. Drawing on the ironclad authority of the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, the Trump team is overriding obstructive local policies in sanctuary cities and states, ensuring that federal immigration laws are upheld nationwide. Nowhere is this more evident than in the recent operations in Chicago and Charlotte, where targeted deportations are not only legal but essential for public safety, economic fairness, and national security. Let’s break it down and see why these moves deserve our full support.

The Supremacy Clause: The Constitutional Backbone of Federal Immigration Power

At the heart of Trump’s deportation strategy lies Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution—the Supremacy Clause. This foundational provision declares that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the “supreme Law of the Land,” binding on all states regardless of conflicting local rules. In simple terms, when the federal government acts within its authority on immigration—a field the Supreme Court has long recognized as exclusively federal—states and cities cannot stand in the way.

This isn’t just theory; it’s been affirmed time and again by the courts. In landmark cases like *Arizona v. United States* (2012), the Supreme Court struck down state attempts to create their own immigration enforcement schemes, emphasizing federal preemption. Similarly, rulings during Trump’s first term, such as *United States v. California* (2018), clarified that while states can’t be forced to assist federal agents, they absolutely cannot obstruct them. This principle is now powering the administration’s efforts to dismantle sanctuary policies that have shielded criminal aliens and undermined public trust in the rule of law.

By invoking this authority, the Trump administration is fulfilling its mandate under federal statutes like 8 U.S.C. § 1226 and § 1231, which require the detention and removal of certain undocumented individuals. Recent court decisions, including those enjoining Biden-era non-enforcement policies, further reinforce that the executive branch has a duty to act—not an option to ignore congressional intent.

Chicago: Cracking Down on Sanctuary Obstruction and Protecting American Lives

Chicago, long a bastion of sanctuary city policies under Democratic leadership, has been a prime target for Trump’s renewed focus on deportations. In November 2025, the administration launched “Operation Midway Blitz,” a coordinated effort involving ICE and other federal agencies to apprehend and remove undocumented immigrants, many with criminal ties.

This operation has already led to the detention of hundreds, with a strong emphasis on those posing threats to community safety—despite misleading claims that “nearly all” had no criminal records, data shows a significant portion did, and all were in violation of federal immigration law.

Critics, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, have protested these actions, demonizing federal agents and the National Guard while leading chants against deportations.

Tragically, this rhetoric coincided with the heartbreaking loss of two National Guardsmen in the line of duty, underscoring the dangers of politicizing law enforcement.

But the Supremacy Clause cuts through the noise: Chicago’s sanctuary ordinances, which limit cooperation with ICE, cannot block federal operations. The administration has rightfully pushed back, using tools like withholding grants and direct federal intervention to ensure compliance.

The results speak for themselves. With over 500,000 deportations nationwide since January 2025, including many from high-crime areas like Chicago, violent incidents are declining—Chicago’s shootings are down 33% and homicides 25% compared to 2024.

By prioritizing the removal of violent gang members and other threats, Trump’s team is making streets safer for law-abiding citizens. This isn’t about politics; it’s about enforcing laws that protect Americans first.

Charlotte: Boosting Jobs, Easing Burdens, and Demonstrating Efficiency

Shifting south to Charlotte, North Carolina, the Trump administration’s “Operation Charlotte’s Web” has been a resounding success in demonstrating how federal supremacy can deliver tangible benefits.

Over just a few days in mid-November 2025, federal agents arrested more than 250 undocumented individuals, surging resources to target those straining local economies and infrastructure.

While some reports highlight that not all arrestees had criminal records, the operation aligns perfectly with federal priorities: removing those here illegally, regardless of additional crimes, to free up jobs and resources for Americans.

One unexpected upside? Charlotte’s notorious traffic woes are easing as construction sites and businesses, previously reliant on undocumented labor, now stand ready for American workers.

Entire job sites have opened up, creating opportunities for citizens and legal residents—proving that Trump’s “America First” approach isn’t just rhetoric; it’s revitalizing local economies.

Even as North Carolina Republicans express concerns about the scale, the operation’s swift conclusion shows the administration’s commitment to targeted, efficient enforcement without unnecessary disruption.

Here again, the Supremacy Clause reigns supreme. North Carolina’s more cooperative stance allowed for seamless federal action, but even in resistant areas, the Constitution empowers the president to bypass local hurdles. This operation has removed burdens on taxpayers, reduced competition for entry-level jobs, and sent a clear message: illegal presence won’t be tolerated.

Why These Actions Are Essential—and Why We Should Stand Behind Them

President Trump’s deportation initiatives in Chicago and Charlotte aren’t radical; they’re a return to constitutional order. For too long, sanctuary jurisdictions have flouted federal law, harboring individuals who drain resources and, in some cases, commit crimes that devastate families. By leveraging the Supremacy Clause, the administration is reclaiming control, deporting over 527,000 people since taking office, and aiming to deport even more.

This isn’t cruelty—it’s justice, ensuring that our laws apply equally and our communities thrive.

Opponents may cry foul, but the facts are clear: these operations are reducing crime, opening jobs, and upholding the rule of law. As Americans, we should applaud this courage and support the Trump administration’s efforts to make our nation safer and stronger. The Supremacy Clause isn’t just a legal tool—it’s the shield protecting our sovereignty. Let’s keep America great by enforcing it fully.

Why Air Traffic Control and the TSA Should Be Privatized

Every day, millions of Americans depend on the air transportation system to travel safely and efficiently. Yet, behind the scenes, the infrastructure that makes this possible — air traffic control (ATC) and airport security — remains hampered by bureaucracy, outdated technology, and political gridlock. The United States should privatize both Air Traffic Control and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Doing so would increase efficiency, reduce political interference, improve customer experience, and allow the government to focus on regulation and safety rather than slow-moving operations.

Efficiency and Innovation

Government-run systems, while stable, are often slow to adapt. The FAA’s air traffic control network still relies on radar-based technology from the mid-20th century, even as other nations have transitioned to modern satellite-based systems. Because federal agencies must navigate complex procurement rules and congressional oversight, innovation is stifled. In contrast, a privatized ATC organization could upgrade equipment faster, streamline training, and implement cost-saving innovations without waiting for political approval.

The success of Canada’s NAV CANADA demonstrates this clearly. As a nonprofit private corporation, NAV CANADA manages one of the world’s safest and most efficient air traffic control systems, funded by user fees instead of taxpayer dollars. Its adoption of advanced navigation and communication technologies has cut flight times, reduced fuel use, and enhanced safety — all while remaining financially stable. The U.S. could achieve similar success by freeing ATC from the constraints of federal bureaucracy.

Reducing Political Interference

Few things disrupt essential services more than government gridlock. Federal shutdowns have repeatedly threatened to halt or delay air traffic operations and TSA paychecks, despite the vital role these services play. Privatization would insulate these functions from political gamesmanship. A self-funded, independent ATC and TSA could operate continuously, financed by user or service fees rather than unpredictable congressional appropriations. Leadership and staffing decisions could be made based on merit and performance, not politics.

By separating day-to-day operations from the political process, the government can ensure stability and accountability. The FAA would still set and enforce safety standards, but it would no longer be burdened with running a massive operational bureaucracy.

Fetterman’s Call for Country Over Party

It’s a strange day indeed when Senator John Fetterman is the voice of reason in Washington.

“It’s an easy, easy choice to pick my country over the party, especially in circumstances like this,” Fetterman said, speaking about the government shutdown.