Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy the National Guard to the city, labeling it a ‘flagrant violation of the Constitution.’ In a tweet, Johnson wrote, ‘What the President is proposing would be the most flagrant violation of our Constitution in the 21st Century. The City of Chicago does not need a military occupation.’ The mayor’s comments reflect growing tensions between local leaders and the federal government, particularly as Trump has vowed to expand federal intervention to other cities.
Johnson argued that Chicago does not need the National Guard, pointing to a significant drop in crime. He noted that homicides have decreased by 30% and shootings have fallen nearly 40% in the past year. These statistics, he believes, demonstrate that the city has already made strides in public safety without federal assistance. ‘We need to invest in people to ensure that we can build safe and affordable communities,’ Johnson stated during an appearance on MSNBC’s ‘The Weekend.’ His remarks were met with criticism from the White House, which suggested that local leaders should focus on solving their own city’s issues rather than criticizing the administration for its anti-crime initiatives.
Trump’s announcement of potential National Guard deployment to Chicago followed his recent federalization of D.C.’s Metropolitan Police, a move that drew support from six red states, which pledged 2,000 Guardsmen to the capital. This action has further escalated tensions between the administration and urban centers like Chicago, which face unique challenges such as poverty and gang activity. Johnson expressed concerns that any federal intervention could further erode trust between law enforcement and the community, a relationship that has been crucial in addressing crime.
Johnson and his team are actively coordinating with state and county officials to prepare for any potential military deployment. He emphasized, ‘No matter what happens, the City of Chicago will not waver. We are Chicago. We will not bend or cower, and we will never break.’ The mayor’s unwavering stance underscores the deep divide between local governance and federal authority, highlighting the complex interplay of political will and law enforcement strategies in urban areas. As the situation evolves, the impact of federal intervention on public safety and community relations remains a critical issue for both policymakers and citizens.