A Chicago priest expressed disapproval towards President Donald Trump for his social media comments following a violent Juneteenth weekend. The weekend left at least six people dead and over 30 others injured in the city.
Father Michael Pfleger, speaking when community leaders met Monday, urged the establishment of a dedicated city agency to combat gun violence. The Chicago Police Department reported that from Friday evening to late Sunday, the city witnessed 24 shootings involving 39 victims, six of whom died.
On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social about Chicago’s crime issues, suggesting federal forces should intervene in the city. He referred to previous federal interventions that, according to him, transformed cities like D.C. from among the worst to some of the safest.
Pfleger, a well-known priest from St. Sabina Catholic Church, criticized Trump for focusing on the violence. He questioned Trump’s statements about gun violence reduction timelines and asked for funding restoration for prevention initiatives.
He mentioned previous funding cuts made by the administration, particularly for gun violence prevention.
Meanwhile, community figures and city officials convened at City Hall, advocating for a proposed Department of Gun Violence Prevention. This department aims to focus on reducing gun violence and coordinate related programs citywide.
The proposal met resistance against federal intervention. State and local leaders argue for funding local crime prevention initiatives instead.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson praised Trump’s crime reduction strategies in other cities, urging Chicago leaders to consider similar measures.
Mayor Brandon Johnson criticized Trump’s administration for reducing funding to programs, including education, housing, and healthcare, which he claims contribute to safer communities. Johnson highlighted programs aimed at supporting young people, improving mental health services, and enhancing affordable housing.
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