Governor Pritzker Responds to Trump’s Threats to Send Military to Chicago

As former President Donald Trump continues to suggest deploying National Guard troops to Chicago amid concerns over rising violence, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker made a firm public stance against such actions. During a recent news conference, Pritzker directly addressed Trump, denouncing the idea and emphasizing that Chicago does not want or need federal military intervention.

In his statement, Pritzker stated: “Today, we are standing here united, unafraid to tell the president that his proposed actions will only make our jobs more difficult and worsen the lives of our residents. Earlier today, in the Oval Office, Trump asked me to say, ‘Mr. President, can you do us the honor of protecting our city?’ To which I reply, ‘Mr. President, do not come to Chicago. You are neither wanted nor needed here.'”

He also criticized Trump’s recent remarks, suggesting they reflect a decline in mental acuity and are inappropriate for someone in the presidency. Pritzker’s strong words highlight the ongoing political tension and local resistance to federal intervention in Chicago’s efforts to address crime and public safety.

Future developments on federal and state cooperation in addressing urban safety remain uncertain, but for now, Illinois leadership firmly rejects federal military involvement in Chicago’s local affairs.