Chicago Unveils 'Abolish ICE' Among New Snowplow Names

The city's annual snowplow naming contest included a politically-charged winner alongside tributes to local icons.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The city of Chicago has announced the six winners of its annual snowplow naming contest, including a plow named 'Abolish ICE' that received the most submissions. Other winners paid tribute to Chicago figures like Pope Leo XIV, comedian Stephen Colbert, and the iconic TV host Svengoolie.

Why it matters

The snowplow naming contest is a lighthearted annual tradition in Chicago, but this year's politically-charged winner reflects the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement policies. The contest results provide insight into the political leanings of Chicago residents.

The details

According to Block Club Chicago, the 'Abolish ICE' name was nominated by approximately 70% of the more than 13,000 submissions in the contest. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the name during the voting period. The other winning names include 'Pope Frío XIV', 'Stephen Coldbert', 'Caleb Chilliams', 'Svencoolie', and 'Blizzard of Oz'.

  • The snowplow naming contest took place in recent weeks.
  • The new plows will be unveiled later this year.

The players

Brandon Johnson

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

Rich Koz

The actor who plays the character Svengoolie on the iconic Chicago television program.

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' quarterback, who the 'Caleb Chilliams' snowplow is named after.

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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

The new snowplows will be unveiled later this year after the nameplates are installed.

The takeaway

Chicago's snowplow naming contest reflects the city's diverse interests and political leanings, with a mix of lighthearted tributes and a politically-charged winner that highlights the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement.