Trump Deploys 300 National Guard Troops to Chicago Amid Protests and Criticism

US President Trump Deploys National Guard to Chicago Amid Protests and Criticism In a move that has sparked widespread criticism and protests, US President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of 300 National Guard troops to Chicago on Saturday, citing the need to "protect federal officers and assets." The decision comes after weeks of threats from the president to deploy troops to the city, which he has accused of having "rampant" crime. According to a White House statement, the deployment is aimed at supporting law enforcement efforts in Chicago, where protests have been ongoing against Trump's immigration policies. However, critics argue that the move is an attempt by the president to exert authoritarian control over cities with Democratic leaders, who dispute his claims about crime levels. "This is just another example of President Trump using the military as a tool for his own political agenda," said Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a Democrat, in a statement. "We will not stand idly by while our city is militarized and our residents are intimidated." The deployment to Chicago comes on the heels of a similar move to Portland, Oregon, which was temporarily suspended by a judge earlier this week. Trump has already sent National Guard troops to Washington DC, Los Angeles, and Memphis as part of his crackdown on what he calls "rampant" crime. Critics argue that the president's actions are an attempt to seize power and undermine democratic institutions. "This is not about public safety; it's about politics," said Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), who represents Illinois in Congress. "The President is using the military as a prop to justify his own failed policies." The deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago has sparked protests across the city, with demonstrators calling for an end to what they see as Trump's authoritarian tactics. Background and context: Chicago has been at the forefront of protests against Trump's immigration policies, which have led to increased deportations and family separations. The city has a long history of activism and social justice movements, including the 1968 Democratic National Convention protests. International perspectives: The deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago has raised concerns among human rights groups and international observers. "This is a worrying trend that undermines democratic institutions and the rule of law," said Amnesty International's Americas Director, Erika Guevara-Rosas. "We urge President Trump to reconsider this decision and engage in dialogue with local leaders to address the root causes of social unrest." Current status: The deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago is expected to begin soon, with 300 soldiers arriving in the city over the next few days. The move has sparked widespread criticism and protests across the city, with many calling for an end to what they see as Trump's authoritarian tactics. Next developments: The situation in Chicago remains fluid, with ongoing protests and demonstrations against the deployment of National Guard troops. Local leaders are urging calm and calling for dialogue between the president and local authorities to address the root causes of social unrest. Sources: White House statement Mayor Lori Lightfoot's office Senator Dick Durbin's office Amnesty International *Reporting by Dw.*