Trump Considers National Guard for Chicago Amid Crime Initiatives

On Monday, Gregg Jarrett, a legal analyst, discussed on Fox Business the authority governors hold regarding the National Guard. This comes after President Donald Trump announced plans to focus on Chicago following his recent deployment of the Guard under an emergency crime order in Washington, D.C. He also mentioned potential efforts in New York City.

During his appearance on “Kudlow,” Jarrett noted that similar actions have historical precedent, referencing Eisenhower’s use of the National Guard. “When there’s obstruction of federal law enforcement and a threat to citizens, the president can indeed call in the National Guard,” he said.

Jarrett emphasized that even if a governor objects, the president has the ability to proceed with deploying the National Guard. “He can mobilize the National Guard and inform the governor. Should the governor oppose it, the president can still act,” he stated.

In Washington, D.C., Trump oversees the metropolitan police. Reports indicate that this area has the fourth-highest murder rate in the nation, prompting the administration to seek changes to local bail policies and law enforcement measures, which have been challenging for local officials to implement.

Interestingly, recent statistics reveal a significant drop in crime in D.C., with robbery incidents decreasing by 42% and carjackings plummeting by 85% over the last two weeks, according to DC Police Union data. The union has expressed support for Trump’s federal oversight of city police.

A Harris poll released on Monday indicated that 54% of voters back Trump’s crime initiatives in Washington, D.C. This aligns with statements from the White House about a notable decrease in violence, including extended periods without any reported murders.