Top Points:
Mismanagement of Immigration Crisis: Mercedes Schlapp criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson for prioritizing illegal immigrants over long-term residents, accusing him of straining the city’s finances by redirecting taxpayer dollars to support migrants instead of addressing critical local needs.
Rising Crime Rates and Weak Public Safety Policies: Schlapp highlighted Chicago’s surging violent crime, blaming Johnson’s progressive policies, such as cutting police budgets and promoting alternatives to traditional law enforcement, for empowering criminals and undermining public safety.
Economic and Social Decline: Schlapp warned that Johnson’s leadership is driving Chicago into financial instability and social chaos, potentially leading to a continued population decline and a worsening economic outlook for the city.
Full Report:
Mercedes Schlapp, former White House strategic communications director and conservative commentator, pulled no punches in her recent appearance on Newsmax. Schlapp criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, calling him an "authoritarian" whose policies have exacerbated crime, financial instability, and the city's ongoing immigration crisis.
Schlapp accused Johnson of prioritizing political posturing over the needs of Chicago’s residents by actively welcoming illegal immigrants to the city. She argued that this decision has strained Chicago’s already limited financial resources and diverted attention from critical issues affecting long-term residents.
"Even more so, that they're taking out this $40 million in short-term loans that, of course, puts Chicago into greater debt," said Schlapp.
Recent reports have shown that Chicago is struggling to house the influx of migrants sent from border states. City officials have faced criticism for redirecting funds and spaces, such as public schools and community centers, to accommodate migrants, leaving local communities feeling abandoned.
Schlapp also called attention to Chicago’s rising crime rates, which have become a focal point of Johnson’s tenure. According to recent statistics, violent crime—including homicides, carjackings, and robberies—has continued to surge. Schlapp placed the blame squarely on the mayor's progressive policies, which she claims embolden criminals while sidelining law enforcement.
Critics have noted that Johnson’s focus on "reimagining public safety" has included cutting police budgets and promoting alternatives to traditional policing, moves that many argue are poorly timed given the city's crime epidemic.
Schlapp warned that Johnson’s policies could lead to even greater financial instability and a mass exodus of residents. Chicago has already seen population declines in recent years, with middle-class families and businesses leaving for safer, more stable environments.
Schlapp concluded her remarks with a call for Chicagoans to push back against what she described as Johnson’s "authoritarian rule." She encouraged voters to demand accountability and a focus on policies that prioritize safety, fiscal responsibility, and the well-being of long-time residents.
"I pray that these big cities move away from the Democrat political machine and vote for a common sense Republican to get into power to get control of the crime and this illegal immigration crisis in their cities," concluded Schlapp.