A priest in Chicago has voiced strong opposition to President Donald Trump’s comments about the city’s recent violent incidents. Following a weekend during Juneteenth, where violence resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals and injuries to over 30 others, Father Michael Pfleger publicly addressed Trump’s remarks.
Father Pfleger, from St. Sabina Catholic Church, criticized Trump after he suggested federal intervention in Chicago’s crime issues on Truth Social. Over the weekend, 24 separate shootings hit the city, resulting in 39 victims, according to police reports. Trump commented on these events, proposing that federal forces could reduce crime as they had in D.C., and challenged Illinois Governor JB Pritzker over the situation.
In a city meeting, Pfleger stated his disagreement with Trump’s approach, mentioning past promises that were not fulfilled. He urged instead for funding dedicated to reducing gun violence, funds which he claimed were cut by Trump. Community leaders and city officials also gathered to push for the establishment of a Department of Gun Violence Prevention focusing on violence reduction across Chicago.
Despite calls for federal involvement from the Trump administration, city leaders advocate for solutions rooted in local initiatives and crime prevention programs. They argue these measures better address the community’s specific needs. Meanwhile, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson criticized Trump for cuts to essential city services such as education and housing that he says support community safety.
Johnson also highlighted discrepancies in Trump’s promises compared to actions, noting his efforts to expand mental health and affordable housing, addressing commitments Trump outlined but failed to deliver.
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