President Trump indicated that Chicago could be the next city to deploy federal law enforcement or the National Guard to combat violent crime.
Why it matters: Trump’s remarks Friday are the strongest indication yet that the federal government plans to deploy troops to one of the nation’s largest cities.
What they’re saying: “Chicago is a disaster. The people of Chicago are asking us to come,” Trump said during an Oval Office press conference during the World Cup.
“I think Chicago will be our next city, and then we’ll help New York.”
On the other hand, Trump is threatening a military takeover against Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, whom he calls “totally incompetent,” and against Governor J.B. Pritzker, a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028.
“He doesn’t have the legal authority to do that,” Johnson said at a recent press conference about sending troops. As mayor of Chicago and knowing the principles of our Constitution, our resistance to Trump’s tyranny is justified.
Fact: While violent crime remains a major problem in Chicago, the homicide rate has fallen 31% year over year, mirroring similar declines in other cities.
Yes, but: Trump and Washington police officials are hailing the dramatic drop in crime since the National Guard deployed 11 days ago.
Closer: Trump also emphasized that Chicago’s Black community wants him to act.
“I’ve had great success with the Black vote, you know, and they want something to happen,” Trump added.
Background: During his first term, Trump directed the Justice Department to implement “Operation Legend” in Chicago, which mobilized more than 100 agents to combat violent crime.
Next: It’s unclear whether Trump has the right to deploy the National Guard in U.S. states. While Washington, D.C., has different laws regarding its interactions with the federal government, Chicago falls under Illinois’ jurisdiction.
A federal judge is expected to rule soon on whether the president has the authority to override a state governor’s decision to deploy the National Guard.
Bottom line: Trump has already threatened to deploy the National Guard in Chicago, but now that he’s done it in Washington, D.C., that threat may well become a reality.