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Whizz co-founder says Trump’s Chicago crackdown is scaring delivery workers offthe streets
Whizz co-founder Mike Peregudov revealed that President Trump's immigration policies are frightening food delivery workers in Chicago, adversely affecting their business. A viral video showed an e-bike delivery worker evading armed federal agents, highlighting the fear among workers of ICE raids and National Guard threats. Whizz's fleet growth has stalled as many delivery personnel have left the city due to these threats.
Key points
- A viral video of a food delivery worker chased by federal agents highlights rising fears among gig economy workers.
- Trump's deportation policies and threats to send National Guard troops to Chicago have led to a measurable drop in Whizz's business.
- Whizz's fleet had rapidly grown to 300 bikes in Chicago but lost 8% of its business since August due to increasing fears among workers.
- Despite a rise in concern, business has increased in Washington D.C. as delivery workers switch to less regulated e-bikes.
Why it matters
- The current climate of increased immigration crackdowns reflects broader societal trends observed in the gig economy and labor markets.
- The issue of immigrant workers facing threats and instability due to governmental actions ties into ongoing discussions about worker rights and protections in 2025's labor landscape.
- Past patterns of immigrant-targeting policies may influence the future structure of gig economy companies like Whizz, as they navigate legal and ethical responsibilities.
The fear instilled by recent immigration policies is significantly impacting the gig economy, particularly in cities like Chicago, where companies like Whizz are struggling as delivery workers hesitate to operate amidst threats of deportation.