Chicago Records 54 Shot, 8 Killed Over Labor Day Weekend

President Donald Trump has labeled Chicago the "murder capital of the world" following a violent Labor Day weekend that saw at least 54 people shot and eight killed. He criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's handling of the crime issue and threatened to send National Guard troops to the city to curb violence, citing his success in reducing crime in Washington, D.C. In response, Governor Pritzker condemned any such federal intervention as illegal and warned of an "unprecedented and difficult time" if Trump proceeds, emphasizing the need for civilian law enforcement support instead. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also expressed concern that federal involvement could worsen tensions between residents and police, signing an executive order to block local cooperation with federal agents on immigration and patrols. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Trump's stance, urging Pritzker to accept federal help, while Trump praised D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser for collaborating with him to reduce crime. The situation highlights a sharp divide between the federal government and Illinois state and city officials over how to address Chicago's escalating gun violence.