Why it matters:
U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy federal forces to Chicago marks a continuation of his controversial strategy to combat so-called crime in major U.S. cities. Critics say the move politicizes public safety and risks inflaming tensions between communities and law enforcement.
The big picture:
Following deployments to Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., the Pentagon is reportedly preparing to send thousands of National Guard troops to Chicago in September. He dubbed Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson as "grossly incompetent" and said, "When we're ready, we'll go ahead," as quoted by ABC News.
What they’re saying:
Trump told reporters: “Chicago is a mess… we’ll make it safe also.” He confirmed he had not spoken to Mayor Johnson but said the deployment would happen “when we are ready.”
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker called the move a manufactured crisis: “The State of Illinois has received no requests or outreach from the federal government… and we have made no requests for federal intervention.”
Mayor Johnson warned the deployment could “inflame tensions” and undermine progress: “Trust between police and residents is fundamental to building safer communities.” He cited data showing declines in homicides, robberies, and shootings over the past year.
Flashback:
In June, Trump ordered 700 Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, defying California Gov. Gavin Newsom amid protests over immigration raids. Last week, Republican governors agreed to send troops to Washington, D.C., despite Justice Department data showing violent crime there hit a 30-year low.
What’s next:
The proposed Chicago deployment is expected to deepen partisan divides over federal intervention in local policing. With no formal request from Illinois officials, Trump’s plan may face legal and political resistance.
Hossein Amiri - Mahboubeh Habibi
