President Trump has once again criticized Chicago, labeling it the “worst and most dangerous city in the World, by far.” This statement follows previous instances where he suggested deploying the National Guard to the city, similar to what he has done in the District of Columbia.
In a social media post, the president cited the number of shootings in Chicago over the weekend, stating that “At least 54 people were shot in Chicago over the weekend, 8 people were killed. The last two weekends were similar.”
The president also addressed Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, suggesting that he “needs help badly, he just doesn’t know it yet.” This implies a need for intervention to address the city’s crime issues.
Mr. Trump claimed he could swiftly resolve the crime problem, drawing a parallel to his alleged success in Washington, D.C., stating, “I will solve the crime problem fast, just like I did in D.C.”
He has previously indicated a willingness to send National Guard troops to other cities, highlighting the perceived positive impact of their deployment in Washington, D.C., where hundreds of troops were deployed to combat rising crime rates.
The president commended D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser for acknowledging the reduction in crime following the surge of federal officers in the city. Mayor Bowser reported an 87% decrease in carjackings compared to the previous year and a 15% overall drop in crime since the deployment.
Mr. Trump contrasted these results with the situations in other major cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Baltimore, questioning, “Wouldn’t it be nice to say that about Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and even the Crime Drenched City of Baltimore???” He expressed confidence that similar improvements could be achieved rapidly if these cities were willing to collaborate.
However, Governor Pritzker has expressed opposition to deploying the National Guard in Chicago. He stated on CBS’ “Face the Nation” that “we don’t want troops on the streets of American cities,” deeming it “un-American.” He also criticized the president’s understanding of the Constitution and the law.
Despite rejecting the deployment of troops, the Illinois governor, considered a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028, indicated openness to increased support from federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to combat drug and gun-related crime.
Specifically, Governor Pritzker articulated a desire for “Civilian law enforcement help,” specifying the need for ATF agents to aid in removing guns from the streets and for the FBI to collaborate with local law enforcement to apprehend criminals.
He emphasized that the city would welcome such assistance from federal agencies to augment local law enforcement efforts in addressing crime.