Democrats blast Trump over Chicago deportation and military threats
Democrats Criticize Trump for Threatening Chicago with Deportations and Military Deployment
President Donald Trump is facing criticism from Democrats after a social media post on Truth Social appeared to threaten Chicago with deportations and the U.S. military. In the post, Trump shared an AI image of himself styled as Robert Duvall’s character in “Apocalypse Now,” with the words “Chipocalypse Now” featured prominently.
“‘I love the smell of deportations in the morning…'” Trump wrote in the post, referencing a famous quote from the film. He also added, “Chicago about to find out why it’s called the Department of WAR,” alluding to his executive order renaming the Department of Defense.
President Donald Trump shared a digitally altered image depicting himself as a commander “at war” with Chicago, drawing backlash from Illinois leaders. (President Donald Trump via Truth Social)
Several Democrats condemned Trump’s rhetoric, with California Gov. Gavin Newsom accusing the president of using the military as “political pawns.” Illinois Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin also criticized Trump’s post, calling it “disgusting” and inappropriate.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said President Donald Trump was “using our troops like political pawns.” (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have been at odds with Trump over the potential deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago. Pritzker called Trump’s threats “not normal” and emphasized that Illinois will not be intimidated by the president’s actions.
Despite the tensions, Mayor Johnson highlighted the progress Chicago has made in reducing violent crime, with homicides and robberies decreasing by more than 30% and shootings dropping by nearly 40% in the past year.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have been feuding with President Donald Trump in recent weeks. (Kamil Krzaczynski/AFP via Getty Images)
In response to Trump’s rhetoric, Mayor Johnson emphasized the need to protect democracy and resist authoritarianism. He called on Chicago residents to stand united against any attempts to undermine their city’s values.
