Obama Criticizes Trump’s Use of the National Guard in Cities, Calling It a “Dangerous Trend”

Obama Warns of Risk to Civil Liberties
Former President Barack Obama cautioned that policies under Donald Trump’s administration are fostering “dangerous trends” that could endanger the freedoms of Americans. He stressed that the issue should concern people across the political spectrum.

Concerns About Troop Deployment
On X, Obama highlighted an interview between Ezra Klein and journalist Radley Balko, focusing on Trump’s threats to send National Guard forces into New York and Chicago, the latter being Obama’s hometown.

Erosion of Democratic Norms
Obama said the discussion revealed growing dangers tied to federalizing and militarizing local law enforcement. He warned that using military forces domestically and undermining due process principles put all citizens’ liberties at risk.

White House Response
The Trump administration rejected Obama’s remarks. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson told Fox News Digital that Obama lacked credibility, accusing him of having weaponized government agencies against conservatives and of fueling the “Russia hoax.”

Trump’s Crime Crackdown Plans
Trump has floated the idea of a federal crackdown on crime in Chicago, similar to actions in Washington, D.C. On Truth Social, he blamed Illinois Governor JB Pritzker for rising violence and claimed Democrats are incapable of solving it.

Rising Violence in Chicago
Citing a recent weekend with six murders and 20 shootings, Trump said residents were desperate for federal help. He teased further action, urging followers to “stay tuned.”

Local Leaders Push Back
Governor Pritzker firmly rejected federal intervention, telling reporters that Trump was “neither wanted nor needed” in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson also joined Democrats in opposing Trump’s threats.