In a significant revelation, an audit has shown that one in five commercial driver's licenses issued to noncitizens in Illinois were granted unlawfully. This alarming statistic prompted Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to send a stern ultimatum to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and the state's licensing director, Kevin Duesterhaus, for immediate corrective action. Failure to comply with federal regulations could jeopardize millions in federal funding for the state, highlighting the seriousness of the issue at hand.

Duffy pointed out several specific cases of noncitizens, including drivers from countries such as El Salvador and Ukraine, who had been operating commercial vehicles without the necessary legal qualifications. The Secretary emphasized the imperative for state partners to prioritize legal compliance and the interests of American citizens over those of individuals who are in the country illegally. His statement reflects the broader federal concern over immigration laws being flouted in various states, particularly in transportation sectors where safety and legality are paramount.

The ultimatum has sparked considerable debate within Illinois, bringing to the forefront issues of immigration, state governance, and the potential repercussions of noncompliance with federal mandates. As the deadline approaches, the state will need to act swiftly to avoid losing a crucial financial lifeline, thereby underscoring the intersection of state policy and federal law enforcement.