Illinois Legislative News: September 8, 2025
Last week, President Trump continued to stand by his commitment to send the National Guard into Chicago. Though an exact timeline isn’t clear, he’s pitching it as a necessary step to deal with crime even though murders in Chicago in the last three months totaled 123, which is the lowest number for those months since 1965. Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson are very vocal in their opposition to sending the National Guard in, calling the plan unconstitutional and more about politics than public safety. Pritzker even referred to Trump’s actions as a “reality game show” and pointed out that the city still hasn’t received promised federal funding for violence prevention programs.
In response, Mayor Johnson signed the “Protecting Chicago Initiative” on August 30, which bars Chicago Police from assisting the National Guard or federal agents with patrols, arrests, or checkpoints. The order also requires CPD officers to remain identifiable while demanding any federal personnel in the city wear body cameras and show clear identification.
The idea of military intervention has sparked a lot of debate, not only between federal and state leaders but also among veterans and service members, many of whom say it’s unnecessary and a misuse of military power. The pushback isn’t limited to Illinois. California and several other Democratic-led states have already filed lawsuits challenging the legality of Trump’s deployment orders. For now, the proposal has intensified tensions between Washington and Illinois, setting the stage for what could be a major legal and political battle if the administration tries to follow through.
Important Upcoming Dates – Statewide
October 14-16 – Veto Session Week 1
October 28-30 – Veto Session Week 2