Trump Defends National Guard Deployment Amid Dictator Claims

President Donald Trump defended his deployment of the National Guard in Washington, DC, and his threats to send troops to other cities, including Chicago, amid criticism labeling him a dictator. Trump rejected these accusations, stating he is not a dictator but a man with common sense who aims to restore order in cities plagued by crime. He acknowledged that while some Americans express opposition, others say they might welcome a dictator, though he insists he is not one. The National Guard presence in DC has increased to 2,000 troops, now authorized to carry firearms, as part of a federal crackdown on crime, with Trump signing executive orders targeting criminal justice reforms such as cashless bail. Despite pushback from Democratic leaders, Trump criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and suggested that many people want federal intervention to combat crime. Trump also mentioned having a good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting his diplomatic engagements amid domestic challenges.