Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy the National Guard in Chicago. He called it an abuse of power.
Pritzker argued no emergency exists that justifies sending troops into Illinois. He accused Trump of creating a crisis for political purposes.
Trump already sent about 2,000 troops to Washington DC. The city’s Democratic leadership opposed the deployment. Trump presents the mission as part of a nationwide effort to crack down on crime.
On Friday, he said Chicago and New York could be next.
Chicago mayor warns of conflict and setbacks
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said he received no official notice of National Guard deployment. He voiced strong concerns over the plan. He called it uncoordinated, uncalled for, and unsound.
Johnson warned the move could escalate tensions between residents and police. He added it could reverse the city’s progress in reducing crime.
Pentagon orders armed Guard in Washington
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth directed National Guard troops in Washington DC to carry weapons. The move reversed earlier Pentagon guidance. Just last week, officials said the Guard would remain unarmed.
The Guard has not joined law enforcement operations. Local officers and federal agencies continue policing duties. Troops remain stationed near landmarks such as the National Mall and Union Station.
The Pentagon said troops will carry weapons consistent with training and mission. It is unclear whether their role in the city will expand.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has not commented on the decision.
Trump hails deployment and hints at emergency powers
Trump declared the Washington mission a success. He said the city had been unsafe but is now secure. He praised the troops and suggested extending the operation to Chicago.
He announced that 1,700 Guardsmen will deploy across 19 states in the coming weeks. Texas will host the largest share. The troops will support immigration enforcement and act as a deterrent.
Trump added he may declare a national emergency after the 30-day mission ends. That would allow him to keep troops indefinitely. He said he would act if conditions did not improve.
Local leaders push back strongly
Several Republican-led states, including South Carolina and West Virginia, already sent forces. Trump also pledged to request $2 billion from Congress to beautify Washington. Earlier this year, lawmakers cut the city’s budget by $1.1 billion.
Attorney General Pam Bondi reported more than 700 arrests since the operation began. She said authorities seized 91 illegal firearms, including 40 arrests on Thursday.
Local officials questioned the need for federal intervention. Mayor Bowser highlighted a sharp decline in crime, calling it the lowest in 30 years.
A Washington Post and Schar School poll showed strong opposition. Nearly 80 percent of residents rejected both the National Guard deployment and federal control of the Metropolitan Police Department.
