Former President Donald Trump has called for the jailing of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. He accuses them of not providing adequate protection for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Trump’s statements were made on Truth Social, igniting backlash from both officials.
Trump’s Controversial Claims
On a Wednesday morning post, Trump asserted, “Chicago Mayor should be in jail for failing to protect ICE officers! Governor Pritzker also!” Both Johnson and Pritzker, who are Democrats, have firmly responded to Trump’s claims.
Deployment of National Guard Troops in Chicago
The remarks coincided with the arrival of National Guard troops in the Chicago area, following an order from the Trump administration. This deployment was initiated despite objections from local officials, including Pritzker and Johnson, leading to escalating tensions.
Responses from Local Officials
- Mayor Brandon Johnson criticized Trump, stating, “This is not the first time Trump has tried to have a Black man unjustly arrested. I’m not going anywhere.”
- Governor Pritzker also expressed his discontent, declaring, “I will not back down. Trump is now calling for the arrest of elected representatives checking his power.”
Details of the National Guard Deployment
As of Wednesday, 200 National Guard troops from Texas arrived at the Elwood Army Reserve Center, roughly 50 miles from Chicago. An additional 300 troops from the Illinois National Guard are preparing for deployment.
The troops are not taking on law enforcement roles. Instead, their purpose is to safeguard federal immigration agents and facilities. Reports indicate that military personnel were seen in uniforms outside the Reserve center, with supplies being delivered for operational needs.
Legal Actions and Protests
Illinois and Chicago have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, aiming to halt the National Guard’s deployment, which they label as “unlawful and dangerous.” A court hearing is scheduled for Thursday.
Mayor Johnson has also taken proactive measures by signing an executive order to prevent federal immigration agents from using city-owned properties for staging enforcement operations.
Historical Context and Public Opinion
The Posse Comitatus Act restricts military involvement in domestic law enforcement, yet Trump has shown willingness to invoke the Insurrection Act if necessary. Since his second term began, he has discussed troop deployments in several major cities to combat crime.
Statistical data indicate that violent crime, including homicides, has declined in recent years. In Chicago, for instance, homicide rates dropped 31% from January to August 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. However, a recent poll revealed that many Americans disapprove of troop deployment without the presence of an external threat.
