In Illinois, Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson officially unveiled the winning name for one of the city’s snowplows, “Abolish ICE.” This unveiling took place during a public ceremony, which was captured in a viral video with over 100,000 views on X, that has since sparked backlash for the politician. In the footage, Mayor Brandon gave a speech to residents as the vehicle, prominently displaying its new title, drove into view and parked directly behind him.
During his speech, he applauded every resident who participated in the contest and urged the community to keep making their voices heard on matters. Turning to the parked snowplow, he urged them to “take in” the moment they had all been waiting for. The timing of this event has become a significant point of discussion, as the caption that accompanied the clip explained that this unveiling happened less than a week after an illegal immigrant murdered a resident, Sheridan Gorman.
According to Block Club Chicago, the annual snowplow-naming contest has been running for about four years. However, the current selection process was a shift in the program as it is the first time a winning name has carried a distinct political undertone. Data from the contest showed that among the 13,300 name entries, over 80 per cent contained messages directed against the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agencies.
Public Backlash Following The Mayor’s Snowplow Unveiling
Netizens immediately stormed the comment section with reactions filled with intense ridicule, highlighting the perceived disconnect between the government and the people’s feelings. Most comments focused specifically on the absurdity of promoting winter equipment as the seasons change.
“Just in time for spring and summer. Way to go!” one user wrote sarcastically. “Unveiling a snowplow in the first week of spring is sub-80 IQ, right on brand for Brandon. Bravo, sir!” another chimed in. One user outrightly called the government “childish” and alluded that they did not care about the people following the proximity to the murder. “The timing of this and it still happening shows they don’t care about any of you,” it read. The sarcasm continued, “Brandon Johnson is running for the worst Mayor in America!” another user stated bluntly.
The decision to move forward with the new name for the snowplow seems to have left a bad taste for many, especially those on the other side of the political divide. It highlights the deep divide between the government’s priorities and the public’s concerns about the practicality of the use of government resources.
