On Tuesday, President Trump issued a stark warning regarding Chicago, stating that the city “will die” if Illinois Governor JB Pritzker continues to decline federal assistance aimed at combatting rising crime. This statement came amidst a weekend marred by violence, where 41 individuals were shot.
Chicago experienced its most significant mass shooting of the year on Saturday, with 15 people injured, contributing to a total of 1,255 gun violence victims this year—a nearly one percent increase compared to last year.
“The violence in Chicago is out of control and at unprecedented levels,” Trump expressed in an impassioned post on Truth Social, cautioning that without intervention, the situation could worsen dramatically.
“This weekend saw 41 shootings and three fatalities. These numbers are becoming alarmingly normal. We can’t let this continue!”
He further remarked that “the city will face dire consequences” unless the local leaders invite federal support to address the escalating violence. “I’m waiting for that call.”
Trump asserted that if the kind of crackdown seen in Washington, D.C. were to be applied in Chicago, crime rates would plummet. “No one should have to endure living in such conditions,” he added.
“The state and city cannot manage this like I can. Governor Pritzker, CALL ME!”
Meanwhile, Pritzker was enjoying a gathering at a bar in the city, attempting to break a world record for the largest number of people simultaneously taking shots of Malort. Approximately 1,969 participants succeeded in setting the new record.
While celebrations unfolded, crime statistics continued to rise. From January 1 to August 29 of this year, the number of shooting victims increased by 0.7% compared to the same timeframe in 2025.
According to reports, 254 people have lost their lives due to gun violence this year, marking an 11.4% rise compared to 2025. The city also recorded a 2.9% increase in homicide victims, from 280 to 288.
Trump, who has previously labeled Chicago a “hellhole” and discussed deploying the National Guard, plans to visit the city later this month for the Presidents Cup golf tournament at Medinah Country Club, starting on September 24.
“I’m excited to be there and meet all of these outstanding athletes!” Trump posted on Truth Social, announcing his role as “Honorary Chairman.”
Pritzker, who has had contentious exchanges with Trump regarding the National Guard situation, stated that the president is “neither wanted nor necessary” in the city, while also critiquing federal tariff policies.
“If he decides to visit DuPage County, he should step away from the country club and explain to Illinois residents why his tariffs have driven up the cost of groceries and utilities,” he remarked.
Pritzker acknowledged the severe issue of gun violence but stopped short of seeking federal aid. Mayor Brandon Johnson has not reached out to Trump as suggested.
“We are committed to breaking cycles of trauma by preventing the flow of guns into our neighborhoods and investing in violence prevention resources,” Johnson stated.
Among the 41 shooting victims, 15 were targeted by masked assailants during a gathering in Washington Park. The incident claimed the life of 35-year-old Rontonio Guterz, with 14 others, aged 21 to 45, injured. Details regarding any suspects remain unannounced.
In a separate tragic incident, 15-year-old Kyren Wormely was killed in a drive-by shooting in South Austin, following being shot twice and later succumbing to his injuries in the hospital.
Last December, the Supreme Court blocked Trump’s attempt to deploy the National Guard to Chicago to safeguard Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel. The court upheld a lower ruling that Trump sought to overturn.
His justification for this action hinged on a law that allows the president to deploy the National Guard in situations where “regular forces” are unable to enforce the law.
