Chicago Snowplow Naming Contest Finalists Include 'Abolish ICE' and Tributes to Local Celebrities

The annual contest drew over 13,000 submissions, with the 'Abolish ICE' entry gaining the mayor's endorsement.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:47pm

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Chicago's annual snowplow naming contest has entered the voting phase, with 25 finalists that include a protest against federal immigration enforcement actions as well as tributes to local Chicago celebrities and figures. The 'Abolish ICE' entry attracted significant attention and support, including an endorsement from Mayor Brandon Johnson. Other finalists reference Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, Chance the Rapper, Daniel Burnham, Derrick Rose, and more.

Why it matters

The snowplow naming contest is a beloved annual tradition in Chicago that allows residents to engage with their local government and celebrate the city's culture and history. The inclusion of politically charged entries like 'Abolish ICE' highlights how the contest has become a platform for civic expression and debate around important issues facing the community.

The details

According to city officials, around 70% of the 13,000 submissions for the snowplow naming contest were for the 'Abolish ICE' entry. Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the name, saying 'This truck being named 'Abolish ICE' has my full and complete endorsement.' Other finalists include references to Chicago celebrities and figures such as Bears quarterback Caleb Williams ('Caleb Chilliams'), Chance the Rapper ('Chance the Scraper'), Daniel Burnham ('Daniel Brrrnham'), Derrick Rose ('Derrick Froze'), and the character Kevin McCallister from 'Home Alone' ('Kevin McPlowister').

  • The annual snowplow naming contest in Chicago is currently in the voting phase, which will close on February 14, 2026.

The players

Brandon Johnson

The mayor of Chicago who endorsed the 'Abolish ICE' snowplow name entry.

Caleb Williams

The quarterback for the Chicago Bears, who had a snowplow named after him as 'Caleb Chilliams'.

Chance the Rapper

The Chicago-based musician who had a snowplow named after him as 'Chance the Scraper'.

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What they’re saying

“This truck being named 'Abolish ICE' has my full and complete endorsement.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago (nbcchicago.com)

What’s next

Voting for the snowplow names will close on February 14, 2026, and the winning names will then have signage installed on the plows. Residents who submitted the winning names will be offered a photo opportunity and merchandise celebrating the city of Chicago.

The takeaway

Chicago's snowplow naming contest has become a platform for civic expression, with politically charged entries like 'Abolish ICE' gaining significant attention and support. The contest highlights the city's vibrant culture and the engagement of its residents in local government initiatives.