Thousands protest Trump’s plan to deploy National Guard to Chicago

Thousands of people gathered in downtown Chicago today, chanting and waving signs in protest of President Trump’s threat to mobilize the National Guard and federal immigration officials. The march was one of approximately 1,000 Workers over Billionaires protests taking place across the United States on Labor Day, but the Chicago demonstration was more targeted because residents were furious after Trump vowed to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., two other Democratic-run cities. Chicago Mayor Johnson addressed the crowd, pledging that Chicago would resist federal intervention. “This city will defend this country,” Johnson said. Protesters waved Chicago flags and cheered enthusiastically. As marchers moved through the city, some walking their dogs and others carrying children on their shoulders, diners at cafes and restaurants along the way gave fist pumps of support, while cars honked their horns. Organizers estimated the turnout at between 5,000 and 10,000 people, but the city could not confirm the exact number. Protesters expressed concern about Trump’s threat to deploy the National Guard and additional Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel. Ramirez, 72, expressed concern about violence if ICE increased its presence in Chicago. Trump has frequently singled out Chicago for its violent crime, describing it as a “mess,” a “living hell,” and a “slaughterhouse.” However, Chicago residents protesting today believe the National Guard is not the solution to Chicago’s crime problem.