Tipsheet

Chicagoans Blast Lightfoot for What O'Hare Airport Has Turned Into

Chicago’s homeless problem is now spilling into O’Hare International Airport, as encampments are being set up inside all five terminals, at baggage claim, and near escalators, leaving passengers and employees dismayed and concerned for their safety.

As Twitter users began sharing photos from the situation at O’Hare, the airport replied in some instances, writing, “We appreciate your feedback. Safety, security and an optimal passenger experience is top priority for the CDA, and we have forwarded your message along to our security team. 

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused and hope your next visit to ORD is more enjoyable.”

Passengers describe the situation as "dystopian" with one Twitter user noting the homeless problem is "out of control." Employees, meanwhile, say no one feels safe anymore. 

“It’s out of control. None of us feel safe,” overnight custodian Vonkisha Chatman, told CBS News.

According to Democrat Alderman Raymond Lopez, who spoke with Fox News's Tucker Carlson about the situation on Wednesday, each night 200-300 homeless come off public transit to set up camp in the airport. He described the airport as an "indoor outhouse." He said they're urinating in the hallways and taking baths in the toilets. "They're making a mockery of what Chicago is here," he said. 

According to the Jessica Dubuar of the Haymarket Center, an organization that serves homeless at the airport, O'Hare is a last resort because the shelters are full. 

“A lot of folks don’t end up at the airport because that’s their goal — that is the last option they have,” she told CBS. 

Angry residents are demanding Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who is seeking reelection at the end of the month, address the situation. When asked by the New York Post for a statement, however, the Democrat's office sent a response from the Chicago Department of Aviation, which said: "The CDA is aware of the increasing population of unsheltered individuals at O’Hare International Airport. It’s a common occurrence at this airport and airports nationwide when temperatures drop in the winter months.”