During a press conference in the Oval Office, President Trump announced plans to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, citing the city’s escalating violence. The move comes after Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker declined federal assistance to address the surge in crime. Trump emphasized his authority to act, stating, “We have the right to do it because I have an obligation to protect this country.”
The decision follows a violent Labor Day weekend, during which at least 58 people were shot and eight killed across Chicago, including a drive-by attack that injured seven. Trump reiterated his pledge to “solve the crime problem fast,” comparing the situation to his efforts in Washington, D.C., where he claimed to have restored safety. He also hinted at extending similar measures to other cities, vowing to “make America great again.”
Trump’s remarks on Truth Social highlighted Chicago’s status as “the worst and most dangerous city in the World, by far,” urging Pritzker to accept aid. The president’s office has not specified a timeline for the National Guard’s deployment.