Chicago Leaders Say “Do Not Come”: Push Back Against National Guard

Saturday’s press conference at the Thompson Center wasn’t just politics — it was Chicago leaders standing shoulder-to-shoulder in defense of our city. Governor J.B. Pritzker, joined by Mayor Brandon Johnson, Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin, and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, sent a message to the White House loud and clear:

“Mr. President, do not come to Chicago.”

A Threat from Washington

President Trump has floated a plan to send National Guard troops into Chicago to “solve” crime, calling the city a “killing field” and claiming he could end violence in a week. But Chicago leaders see this for what it is — an unconstitutional power grab and a dangerous attempt to militarize our streets.

Leaders Strike Back

• Governor Pritzker called the proposal authoritarian and unconstitutional, vowing to use every legal tool to stop it.

• Mayor Johnson reminded everyone that violence is reduced by investment in communities, not by troops with rifles.

• Senator Tammy Duckworth, a veteran, warned that the Guard is not trained for policing our neighborhoods.

• Attorney General Raoul and Senator Durbin pledged to challenge the move in court if needed.

The Facts on the Ground

Despite the President’s dire rhetoric, violence in Chicago has been declining:

• Homicides are down by more than 30%.

• Shootings have dropped by as much as 40%.
  Local experts say there’s no legal or practical reason to send the Guard

This fight is bigger than Chicago. It’s about whether a President can ignore local authority and impose military rule on American cities. As Governor Pritzker put it, “Nothing will stop me from making sure that you face justice under our constitutional rule of law.”

What’s Next

Court challenges are likely if the White House tries to move forward. But for now, Chicago stands united — determined to protect its communities, its voice, and its future.

👉🏽 Bronzecomm Takeaway: This isn’t just a local story. It’s about democracy, dignity, and the right of communities to shape their own solutions.

View the press conference in its entirety here.