Chicagoans unleash creativity in snowplow naming contest, with “Abolish ICE” leading

Chicago's fourth annual "You Name a Snowplow" contest drew more than 13,300 entries, according to WBBM NewsRadio. The Department of Streets and Sanitation picked 25 finalists Sunday. Names range from puns to politics, topping the list with “Abolish ICE.”

Residents submitted clever ideas like "Kevin McPlowister" and "Stephen Coldbert." Others nod to local icons, such as "Caleb Chilliams" and "Plowasaurus Sue." The full alphabetized list includes "Blizzard of Oz" and "Mueve La Nieve," meaning "Move the Snow" in Spanish.

“Abolish ICE” sparks political buzz

"Abolish ICE" led submissions with about 9,300 entries, or 70% of the total, according to a list provided to the Chicago Sun-Times, reported WBBM. It refers to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement amid federal raids in the city. Variations like "ICE out of Chicago" were also nominated.

Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed it on X, formerly Twitter, according to CBS News. In December, he posted: "'Abolish ICE' has my full endorsement for the name of one of Chicago's next Snow Plows." He shared it after denouncing ICE on MS-Now with Rev. Al Sharpton.

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection Cmdr. Greg Bovino fired back on X. He suggested "Reality Check" instead, prompting a swift response from the mayor, CBS noted: "And reality check, Greg: Chicagoans vote on the snow plow names."

Voting opens for citywide favorites

Chicagoans can vote for up to six names, one per snow district, at chicagoshovels.org. The ballot closes Saturday, Feb. 14. Winners get signage on plows, plus photos and city swag for submitters.

Department Commissioner Cole Stallard praised the entries, said in a statement reported by CBS News: “Chicagoans have once again displayed their unmatched creativity and civic pride in submitting names for this year’s contest.” He urged residents to vote.

Past winners include "Mrs. O'Leary's Plow" and "CTRL-SALT-DELETE." This year's mix blends humor with hot topics, reflecting Chicago's spirit as winter storms loom.