Chicago Snowplow Naming Contest Sparks Controversy

The winning name 'Abolish ICE' reflects ongoing tensions over immigration policy

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A snowplow-naming contest in Chicago has resulted in a politically charged winner - 'Abolish ICE' - reflecting the city's left-wing politics and ongoing frustration with the Trump administration's immigration agenda, particularly Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The other top choices, including references to a late-night comedian and a local sports figure, also point to Chicago's unique culture and identity.

Why it matters

The snowplow naming contest highlights the deep political divisions in the US over immigration policy, with the 'Abolish ICE' winner signaling the strong anti-ICE sentiment among many in Chicago's progressive community. It also underscores how even mundane civic activities can become politicized battlegrounds, reflecting the broader tensions in American society.

The details

According to Chicago's Streets and Sanitation department, the top six choices for snowplow names in the annual contest were: 'Abolish ICE,' 'Stephen Coldbert,' 'Pope Frio XIV,' 'The Blizzard of Oz,' 'Svencoolie,' and 'Caleb Chilliams.' The 'Abolish ICE' name was the clear winner, pointing to the intense backlash the Trump administration's immigration policies have received, especially from the political left. Chicago is known as a bastion of left-wing politics, making it unsurprising that such a politically charged name would emerge victorious.

  • The snowplow naming contest took place in early 2026.

The players

Chicago Streets and Sanitation Department

The city department that organized the snowplow naming contest.

Donald Trump

The former US president whose immigration agenda, particularly around ICE, has faced intense backlash.

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The takeaway

The 'Abolish ICE' snowplow name is a striking symbol of the deep political divides in the US over immigration policy, with Chicago's progressive community using even a mundane civic activity to express their opposition to the Trump administration's approach. This incident underscores how political tensions have permeated many aspects of American life.