Democrat Mayor Attacks Trump
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson escalated his criticism of Donald Trump this week, accusing the president of failing working Americans while defending Democratic-led cities facing rising crime, inflation, and mounting budget pressures.
During a Tuesday appearance on The Last Word on MS NOW, Johnson argued that the Trump administration has not delivered “hope” to Chicago residents, citing food prices, health care costs, and job concerns as key issues.
The mayor’s remarks came shortly after the Supreme Court of the United States temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deploying National Guard troops to the Chicago area. The decision followed months of legal review as the White House sought to increase federal involvement in cities struggling with violent crime and illegal immigration.
Johnson framed the ruling as a rebuke of presidential authority, claiming it confirmed what he described as constitutional overreach by the administration. He also sharply criticized federal immigration enforcement, accusing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement of operating as a political tool rather than a public safety agency.
The mayor further highlighted ICE’s budget, noting that only the U.S. military and China’s military receive more federal funding — a point frequently raised by progressive leaders opposing tougher border enforcement.
While Johnson focused his criticism on Washington, affordability remains a major concern for voters nationwide. Polling consistently shows that rising housing costs, health insurance premiums, and everyday expenses continue to dominate public anxiety during President Trump’s second term.
Johnson warned that economic conditions could deteriorate further as portions of the administration’s sweeping summer spending legislation — commonly referred to by supporters as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” — begin taking effect. He characterized the measure as favoring wealthy Americans, while conservatives argue it aims to restore economic growth, secure the border, and rein in long-term federal spending.
Tensions between City Hall and the White House have been escalating for months. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Justice launched an investigation into Johnson’s hiring practices, further souring relations as federal immigration enforcement operations continued throughout the Windy City.
Speaking with guest host Ali Velshi, Johnson said the Supreme Court ruling validated his belief that the administration has acted outside constitutional limits. He argued that meaningful crime reduction would require cooperation with local leaders — a claim the Trump administration disputes, pointing instead to years of failed Democratic leadership in major cities like Chicago.
The White House has repeatedly defended its approach, saying stronger federal action is necessary to restore law and order, protect American communities, and address the consequences of unchecked illegal immigration.
