Charlie Kirk Urged Trump To Save Chicago, President Says At Memorial Service
President Donald Trump commemorated Charlie Kirk at a memorial service, recalling Kirk's plea to "save Chicago" due to rising crime. Kirk, who founded the conservative group Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on September 10 during a speaking event in Utah. Trump indicated potential deployment of the National Guard to Chicago, a controversial measure he has contemplated for several weeks. The memorial attracted tens of thousands of attendees, including senior Trump officials who vowed to uphold Kirk's vision for America. This event coincided with federal immigration operations in the Chicago area, resulting in nearly 550 arrests under Operation Midway Blitz.
In response to the federal actions, Governor JB Pritzker expressed concern over the fear instilled in communities and emphasized the right to peaceful protest. Kirk had previously stated on his podcast that he wished to walk Chicago's Magnificent Mile without fear, advocating for military intervention if necessary. The conflicting approaches highlight ongoing tensions regarding crime and federal law enforcement in urban areas.