Chicago Mayor Criticizes Trump’s Military Plans

On Tuesday, Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago appeared on CNN and described President Donald Trump as an “unstable person,” emphasizing the need for oversight regarding the use of military force in U.S. cities.

“This president is indeed an unstable person, and it’s important to keep him in check. We’re calling on Congress to step up,” Johnson stated during his conversation with Wolf Blitzer.

Blitzer referenced a clip of Trump addressing a military officer at Marine Base in Quantico, Virginia, where the National Guard stated they would soon be heading to Chicago. Johnson responded to the clip, labeling the notion of federal troops in cities as a threat that undermines the dignity of the nation.

He asserted, “No one in this country should accept the idea of armed troops being deployed in our cities. The brave men and women serving to protect this country shouldn’t be used in such a way against American citizens.”

Johnson further argued, “This isn’t just shocking; it’s a harmful attempt to erode the sanctity of our democracy.”

The mayor also indicated that Chicago police would not collaborate with federal agencies should Trump follow through with troop deployments. On the same day, hundreds of federal agents conducted “targeted immigration enforcement activities” in Chicago, focusing on suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang.

The FBI confirmed the operation to Fox 32 Chicago, noting it involved collaboration with the U.S. Border Patrol in the South Shore area. According to reports, nearly 300 agents were involved in the operation targeting six individuals tied to the Venezuelan gang.

Footage from the operation showed agents surrounding an apartment building, with a helicopter lowering a sniper onto the roof.

This operation was reportedly initiated by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, following an announcement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about plans to deploy 100 troops in Illinois. Ultimately, twenty individuals were taken into custody during the enforcement activities.

Historically, the Trump administration has sent national security forces to cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., to address crime and assist with deportations.