Illinois Governor Criticizes Trump’s Plans for National Guard Deployment to Chicago
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has dismissed reports of potential federal National Guard deployment to Chicago, criticizing President Donald Trump for attempting to manufacture a crisis. The governor stated that there is no emergency and that no formal requests have been made for federal assistance. Pritzker accused Trump of trying to politicize the military and distract from the challenges faced by working families.
The potential deployment comes amid reports that the Trump administration is considering a similar approach to Washington, D.C., where federal law enforcement has been heavily deployed to address rising crime rates. Pritzker noted that Illinois remains committed to the safety of its residents and is prepared to handle any challenges within the state’s own resources. He also criticized the potential use of National Guard troops from other states, stating that such an action would be unnecessary and counterproductive.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, also a Democrat, echoed these concerns, warning that an ‘unlawful deployment’ of the National Guard could damage the already fragile trust between local communities and law enforcement. Johnson pointed to a significant decline in violent crime, including homicides, robberies, and shootings, over the past year as evidence that the city is on the right track. His comments align with the broader sentiment among Illinois Democrats that the move is motivated less by crime reduction and more by political theater.
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton added her voice to the criticism, stating that the potential deployment proves Trump’s willingness to ‘create chaos’ for political gain. She highlighted the progress made in Illinois under the Pritzker-Stratton administration, emphasizing that crime rates are declining and any federal intervention would be out of step with the state’s efforts.
The governor, the mayor, and other Democratic officials have collectively dismissed the prospect of a federal military presence in Chicago, framing it as an attempt by the Trump administration to divert attention from its domestic agenda. As plans for the deployment continue to unfold, the state remains focused on maintaining its sovereignty and protecting the rights of its citizens.