Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is facing serious accusations of inciting an “insurrection” against the United States after a fiery Labor Day rally speech, in which he urged residents to “defend” the city from former President Donald Trump’s proposed federal law enforcement surge.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed over the weekend that a “massive” immigration enforcement initiative is set to begin in Chicago as early as this week. While specific details remain classified, President Trump has not ruled out deploying National Guard troops and other federal resources to assist in deportations and to combat rising crime.
“I won’t disclose operational specifics because we have law enforcement personnel on the ground, and their safety is our top priority,” Noem told CBS News on Sunday. “But we are targeting the worst of the worst—individuals driving violent crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking—just as President Trump has directed.”
Mayor Johnson has repeatedly denounced Trump’s immigration and crime strategies and has issued directives to city departments refusing cooperation with federal agencies. Speaking to MSNBC’s Jonathan Capehart, Johnson said, “We’re going to remain firm. We’ll take legal action. But the people of this city are accustomed to rising up against tyranny.”
He added, “If it comes to that, I believe Chicagoans will stand with me as I work each day to protect this city.” WATCH VIDEO BELOW
The mayor’s rhetoric escalated sharply during Monday’s rally, prompting critics to claim he was attempting to incite civil unrest. “Are you prepared to defend this land? A land built by slaves, indigenous people, and workers? Are you prepared to defend this land?” Johnson shouted to the crowd.
He concluded with, “The people united will always prevail. I need you to stand firm. If this president continues to violate the Constitution, we must act.”
Conservative commentator Matt Walsh, a contributor to The Daily Wire, blasted Johnson’s remarks, calling them “treason.” “Brandon Johnson should be arrested, charged, convicted, and given the appropriate punishment for a capital offense,” Walsh posted on X. He also challenged Johnson’s historical claims, stating, “Chicago was not built by slaves and indigenous people.”
Johnson’s calls to resist federal intervention appear likely to fail. Earlier this year, California Attorney General Rob Bonta attempted to legally block President Trump’s takeover of the state’s National Guard. That lawsuit was dismissed by a federal appeals court, which ruled that the president has constitutional authority to deploy the Guard in response to civil unrest.
Adding to the challenge, Johnson may struggle to rally widespread support. His approval rating has plunged to a historic low of just 26 percent, raising questions about how many Chicagoans are truly willing to “rise up” alongside him.
