Staff Reports
In the windy city of Chicago, it seems there’s a bit of a gusty political drama unfolding. Mayor Brandon Johnson stands resolute against President Trump’s offer to send federal troops to help with the city’s notorious crime problem. There’s a bit of pomp in his refusal, highlighted by a speech in which he promised no federal troops nor militarized force would descend upon Chicago under his watch. The crowd, as one might predict, responded with cheers and applause, even as the backdrop was a city reeling from a violent holiday weekend with at least seven people shot and killed.
One might wonder what exactly Mayor Johnson’s plan is, other than insisting on preserving democracy in Chicago. It’s rather curious how he’s opted to focus on a boisterous declaration of independence from federal intervention, while ignoring the escalating violence that makes national headlines on a regular basis. It seems like quite the leap to stand firm against assistance when local business owners can’t even feel safe opening their doors. Headlines could write themselves on these seemingly backwards priorities.
The mayor apparently believes that by opposing President Trump, he’s on the high road, even as crime figures spiral downward. For someone with a dismal approval rating, he seems bent on defying logic to score political points. One can only imagine the extent of his illusion, as businesses along with residents cry out for some form of relief. Johnson appears to be playing the blame game, pointing at everything but his own policy mismanagement. Yet, the folks in Chicago might see through this, noticing that words aren’t saving lives.
Business owners in Chicago have resorted to hiring private security to fill the void of safety their local government isn’t providing. While officials assure them they’re just numbers on a page of statistics, these real people deal with real issues. It’s almost as though there’s a tone-deafness echoing through the halls of government. A slight nod of understanding from the mayor could go a long way in changing this narrative. Alas, the city remains under the impression that building a political theater is a priority while ignoring the plight of its citizens.
If Mayor Johnson had a change of heart and welcomed federal support, it’s unlikely his rating could sink any further. In fact, it just might improve! The reality is that the people of Chicago are seeking security, not speeches. Whether or not he chooses to make a practical decision remains to be seen, but the people’s need for safety and a responsive, responsible government is unmistakable. One would hope Johnson realizes, sooner rather than later, that in politics, the well-being of citizens quite literally counts.
