Full Breakdown
Chicago's Snowplow Naming Contest Highlights Civic Engagement
2/23/2026, 11:19:08 PM
Record Participation in Snowplow Naming Contest
The city of Chicago has announced the winners of its fourth annual "You Name a Snowplow" contest, which saw unprecedented participation. Over 13,300 name submissions were received, and nearly 39,000 residents cast votes, marking a record for both entries and voters. The contest, organized by the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation, allows residents to suggest names for the city's snowplows, with the top 25 names selected for public voting.
Winning Names and Their Significance
The six winning names from this year's contest are:
1. Abolish ICE
2. Stephen Coldbert
3. Pope Frío XIV
4. The Blizzard of Oz
5. Svencoolie
6. Caleb Chilliams
The name "Abolish ICE" garnered significant attention, with approximately 70% of submissions related to ICE and other immigration enforcement agencies. Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the name during the voting period, stating, “This truck being named ‘Abolish ICE’ has my full and complete endorsement.” The other winning names pay tribute to various cultural references and local figures, such as "Stephen Coldbert," named after comedian Stephen Colbert, and "Pope Frío XIV," a nod to Pope Leo XIV.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed gratitude for the community's creativity and engagement, stating, “I want to thank the people of Chicago for their unmatched creativity, sense of humor, and civic pride.” Winners will have the opportunity to take photos with their named snowplows and receive city-branded merchandise. The newly named snowplows will join a fleet responsible for maintaining over 9,400 lane miles during winter storms.
Criticism and Opposition
While the contest has been celebrated for its creativity, the choice of "Abolish ICE" as a winning name has sparked discussions regarding its political implications. Critics may view the name as a reflection of broader sentiments against federal immigration policies, highlighting the contentious nature of immigration enforcement in the United States.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the contest's results; however, the overwhelming popularity of anti-ICE names suggests a strong community sentiment that may not be universally shared. The city has not provided detailed insights into how the names were chosen beyond the voting process.
What's Next
The newly named snowplows will be unveiled later this year, and the city plans to continue engaging residents through similar initiatives. The contest not only fosters community involvement but also serves as a platform for residents to express their views on local and national issues.
