On Sunday, a U.S. official confirmed to ABC News that the Pentagon is actively drafting plans for the possible deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago. A spokesperson for the Pentagon stated, “We won't speculate on further operations. The Department is a planning organization and is continuously working with other agency partners on plans to protect federal assets and personnel.” This announcement has sparked significant discussion and concern among local leaders and residents.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed his discontent regarding the potential National Guard deployment, labeling it as costly, illegal, and unconstitutional. In light of the Pentagon’s plans, Johnson stated that he is in communication with county and state officials, yet he has not received any updates from the White House. He emphasized, “What this president is attempting to do is not just unconstitutional, but it is very much a threat to our democracy.”
According to a report by The Washington Post, the Pentagon has been preparing for a military presence in Chicago for several weeks. The plans could involve sending thousands of National Guard members to address issues such as crime, homelessness, and illegal immigration. Johnson, along with other Illinois leaders, condemned President Donald Trump’s proposed expansion of crime crackdown efforts, asserting that no resident signed up for military service to occupy American cities.
Despite President Trump’s claims about crime in Chicago, recent data indicates a more than 30% reduction in homicides, a 35% decrease in robberies, and an almost 40% decline in shootings over the past year. “In Chicago, we have effectively reduced all forms of violent crime by doing what works: constitutional policing, violence prevention, and investing in our communities,” Johnson noted. He reiterated that the city is committed to continuing these successful strategies and will not succumb to fear tactics.
Local leaders have criticized Trump’s approach, with Illinois U.S. Senator Dick Durbin stating, “What President Trump is doing in D.C. is purely political theater.” He further emphasized that the president’s actions are creating chaos rather than enhancing safety. Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the need for bipartisan solutions to address crime rather than resorting to military presence in cities.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton have publicly opposed the idea of deploying federal troops in Chicago. Pritzker mentioned that the state has not been contacted by the federal government for assistance and argued that there is no emergency that justifies such actions. “Donald Trump is attempting to manufacture a crisis,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of respecting state sovereignty.
During a recent block party, Mayor Johnson addressed the community’s concerns, reinforcing that “one shooting, one homicide is one too many.” He highlighted the unity among residents and their commitment to supporting each other. Johnson has vowed to take legal action if the National Guard is deployed in Chicago, although the effectiveness of such actions remains uncertain.
The ongoing discussions surrounding the potential deployment of the National Guard in Chicago underscore the complexities of addressing urban crime and safety. As local leadership advocates for community-based solutions, the outcome of the Pentagon’s plans remains to be seen. The people of Chicago continue to call for a focus on proven methods that foster safety and unity rather than militarization.
