Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized President Trump, labeling him a “want-seeker” after the president made jokes regarding immigration efforts and a potential focus on Chicago.
Pritzker remarked on Social Platform X, “The US president is threatening to go to war with American cities.” He added, “This is no joke. This is not normal.”
He further stated, “Donald Trump isn’t a strongman; he’s a scary guy.” He emphasized that Illinois doesn’t fear individuals aspiring to dictatorship.
On Saturday, Trump shared an AI-generated image of himself as a law enforcement officer, featuring a backdrop of Chicago in flames, helicopters, and the phrase “Chipocalypse Now.”
In his caption, Trump quipped, “I love the smell of morning deportation… Chicago is trying to figure out why we call it the Department of War.”
These comments followed his signing of an executive order aimed at renaming the Department of Defense as the War Bureau.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also reacted negatively to Trump’s post, indicating it undermined the honor of the nation. He said, “But the reality is he wants to occupy our city and undermine our constitution,” urging that democracy must be shielded from what he labeled authoritarianism.
Trump’s administration appears set on making Chicago a focus for addressing crime and illegal immigration, with the White House already confirming plans to use a naval base nearby for immigration detention.
Additionally, Trump hinted at deploying National Guard troops to Chicago, referencing what he labeled a successful federal intervention in Washington, D.C. He noted that such actions fall under the Federal District Home Rules Act but Illinois retains its sovereignty.
Pritzker’s plans to possibly deploy troops to Chicago could lead to a legal confrontation reminiscent of past clashes over deportation issues in Los Angeles.
Local leaders have voiced their opposition to the administration’s threats, suggesting Trump is exceeding his authority. Last month, Johnson signed a protection order against potential military deployments.
Many city immigrants and refugees have also been proactive, with updates provided on how they can safeguard themselves.
Pritzker remarked that Trump’s requests for federal law enforcement assistance were unwarranted, questioning the rationale behind such demands amidst declining crime rates.
Trump has also mentioned New Orleans and Baltimore as other potential targets for his administration’s focus.
