Chicago Mayor Defies Trump’s National Guard Threat
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is pushing back against former President Donald Trump’s threat to deploy the National Guard to the city, calling it “unconstitutional federal overreach.” His office said it’s working with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Cook County to explore legal options to block any such move.
Trump has suggested sending troops to cities like Chicago and New York to combat crime, despite recent data showing Chicago’s murders, shootings, and car thefts have significantly dropped. Johnson argues military occupation won’t solve urban issues and criticized Trump for slashing federal programs that help reduce violence.
“The Guard isn’t going to put food on the table or reduce unemployment,” Johnson said.
Legal experts, including the ACLU of Illinois, say Trump would need state approval or a clear justification under the Insurrection Act—something he likely won’t get.
Illinois leaders and local officials say real help would involve hiring more police and investing in communities, not military action. Trump, however, continues to frame cities like Chicago as out of control, despite evidence to the contrary.