
Chicago’s police superintendent is urging calm as the city braces for the deployment of National Guard troops ordered by former President Donald Trump. In a press briefing, the city’s top cop emphasized the importance of keeping protests lawful and nonviolent, warning that authorities would respond firmly to any unrest. The deployment, which has sparked sharp debate among local leaders, comes amid rising tensions surrounding demonstrations and public safety concerns. Critics argue that bringing in the National Guard risks escalating confrontations, while supporters insist it will strengthen security and prevent property damage. City officials are working with community groups and religious leaders to encourage peaceful demonstrations, stressing that the right to protest must not be overshadowed by acts of violence. As troops prepare to arrive, residents remain divided, with some welcoming the show of force and others viewing it as a federal overreach that could further strain police–community relations.