In a recent exchange of words, Lori Lightfoot, the former Democratic Mayor of Chicago, has taken a firm stance against President Donald Trump's portrayal of the city's crime statistics.
Lightfoot, who served as mayor of Illinois' largest city, accused the President of fabricating data to rationalize a potential deployment of the National Guard to Chicago. Her remarks came during an appearance on CNN's "The Arena" with Kasie Hunt.
Lightfoot stated, "Listen, the crime rate has gone down. You heard the numbers of decreases in homicides and shootings and other violent crimes that have gone down and have been going down for the last four years."
She further criticized the President by saying, "We cant ignore that because the President is making up his own facts. And we also know there are red cities in red states that have higher per capita rates of gun violence and other violent crime that were not hearing coming out of the Presidents mouth as the places where he really wants to go."
According to One America News, President Trump has been vocal about his intentions to send National Guard troops to Chicago, citing the city's persistent issues with violent crime, including aggravated assault, sexual assault, homicide, robbery, and theft.
"Well, were going in. I didnt say when. Were going in," Trump declared. "Look, I have an obligation. This isnt a political thing. I have an obligation."
The urgency of the situation was underscored by recent reports from local authorities, which revealed that at least 54 shootings occurred in 37 separate incidents over the Labor Day weekend. The Associated Press noted that most of these cases concluded without any suspects being taken into custody. Among the victims were at least two women and three men, with the identities of the deceased yet to be disclosed.
President Trump took to Truth Social to highlight the severity of the situation, writing, "At least 54 people were shot in Chicago over the weekend, 8 people were killed. The last two weekends were similar."
He also criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, stating, "Chicago is the worst and most dangerous city in the World, by far. Pritzker needs help badly, he just doesnt know it yet."
The debate over crime in Chicago continues to be a contentious issue, with both sides presenting differing narratives. As the city grapples with these challenges, the question remains whether federal intervention will be the solution or if local efforts will suffice in addressing the ongoing violence.
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