Trump Declares: “We’re Going In”
President Donald Trump made it clear he’s ready to move on Chicago after a violent Labor Day weekend that left eight dead and 58 injured. In his Oval Office briefing on Sept. 2, Trump didn’t mince words: “We’re going in. I didn’t say when.”
Trump doubled down, telling reporters, “Look, I have an obligation. This isn’t a political thing. I have an obligation.” That obligation, according to him, is to restore order in a city he called “the worst and most dangerous city in the World, by far” on Truth Social.
For context, Chicago has long been a target of Trump’s criticism. This time, his threats come right after Labor Day violence and while he’s been publicly taking shots at Democratic governors like Gavin Newsom (California), Wes Moore (Maryland), and JB Pritzker (Illinois). All three are seen as possible 2028 presidential contenders.
Chicago Violence Sparks Trump’s Push
According to police reports, Chicago saw at least eight people killed and 58 more injured in shootings over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Trump capitalized on the grim numbers, insisting that Illinois Governor JB Pritzker “needs help badly, he just doesn’t know it yet.”
He went on: “I will solve the crime problem fast, just like I did in DC. Chicago will be safe again, and soon. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
On Truth Social, he followed up with another all-caps post: “CHICAGO IS THE MURDER CAPITAL OF THE WORLD!” While Trump’s words sparked reactions across the nation, there’s still no set timeline on when federal troops could actually touch down in the city.
Mayor Brandon Johnson Pushes Back
Not everyone is rolling out the welcome mat for Trump’s plan. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order on Aug. 30 that made it clear the city won’t play ball with federal troops when it comes to immigration enforcement or day-to-day policing.
“This is about making a very clear distinction between what our law enforcement engages in versus what federal agents engage in,” Johnson said. “This president is not going to come in and deputize our police department.”
Johnson’s words highlight the tug-of-war between local officials and the Trump administration. His stance mirrors other Democratic leaders who say federal involvement would only heighten tensions rather than solve problems.
Chicago Crime Data Tells A Different Story
While Trump paints Chicago as a war zone, recent data shows a more complex picture. According to city reports, the city recorded 278 homicides so far in 2025. While tragic, the number actually reflects a 22% drop in violent crime compared to the same period last year.
The Council on Criminal Justice also reported in July that most major cities across the U.S. have seen declines in multiple crime categories, including shootings. Still, Chicago’s numbers remain high, fueling the debate over whether federal troops are a solution or a political move.