In recent weeks, Chicago has been the center of attention. Both Governor Pritzker and Chicago’s Mayor, Brandon Johnson, have expressed their opposition to deploying troops or federal agents in the city.
But some Illinois Republicans are singing a different tune.
“Brandon Johnson, JB Pritzker, along with the liberal media and other advocates against crime, have deflected the discussion away from the core issue. The simple truth is, people are feeling unsafe, and apparently, the Democrats are okay with that,” stated Chris Miller from the Illinois Freedom Caucus.
Miller and his fellow Freedom Caucus members are the latest in-state officials to call on Pritzker to take Trump up on his offer of assistance.
They argue that whether it is for immigration or high crime, Chicago needs help that Pritzker can’t provide.
Miller continued, “They need to set their egos aside, put aside trivial politics, and get to work solving this issue.”
For the Freedom Caucus, that means bringing in the National Guard.
“We need meaningful change and to have Americans safeguarding our streets, ensuring that mothers can send their kids to the store and know they will return safely,” commented State Representative and Freedom Caucus member, Martin McLaughlin.
On Tuesday afternoon, Pritzker noted that federal agents are already preparing for their mission. He anticipates it will resemble operations seen in Los Angeles over the summer, with agents focusing on community events.
“It saddens me to report that we have been informed ICE plans to disrupt community gatherings and peaceful parades. Let’s be unmistakably clear; instilling fear and cruelty is the ultimate goal,” Pritzker stated.
Pritzker told a crowd in Chicago on Tuesday that he has received information that the Texas National Guard is also preparing to head to Illinois.
Protests in Los Angeles against ICE operations led to the National Guard being deployed.
Pritzker and Johnson don’t want to see that happen in Illinois and urged any protests to stay non-violent.
“I am imploring everyone if and when that happens, do not take the bait,” said Pritzker.
