Chicago Leaders Brace For Federal Troop Deployment With No Guidance From White House

Chicago officials prepare for a potential deployment of federal troops amid uncertainty about their roles, as Mayor Brandon Johnson and Superintendent Larry Snelling insist local police will not assist with immigration enforcement. Snelling highlighted the need for clear communication from the White House to avoid unrest and maintain order. The city’s police department will not engage in clearing homeless encampments, emphasizing that homelessness is not a criminal offense. Local outreach efforts aim to inform unhoused individuals about their rights and available resources. Criticism from city leaders frames the looming deployment as unconstitutional and an abuse of federal power.

The Pentagon has reportedly been planning for weeks regarding the National Guard's possible deployment to Chicago. Snelling also indicated that Chicago police have communicated with law enforcement in Washington D. C. to learn from their experiences with federal troops. Local officials remain committed to protecting community rights amid these developments.