Joe Scarborough urges JB Pritzker to 'partner with' Trump after deadly Labor Day weekend in Chicago

WASHINGTON, DC: Joe Scarborough called on Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to work directly with President Donald Trump to address violent crime in Chicago.

The 'Morning Joe' host reacted to a deadly Labor Day weekend in the city where, according to local news reports, at least 54 people were shot and seven were killed. Scarborough said leadership must act beyond political differences to restore safety.

Joe Scarborough urges JB Pritzker to act after deadly Chicago weekend

Joe Scarborough, speaking with his panel on 'Morning Joe,' said he was stunned by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s stance that more police are not the solution. He called on Pritzker to step in with stronger measures.

“I actually think that JB Pritzker should do something radical,” Scarborough said.

“I think he should pick up the phone, call the president. and say, ‘You know and I know you don’t have the Constitutional authority to deploy the National Guard here, and to police my [city]. You can do that in DC, you can’t do that in Chicago. But let’s partner up. These are the most dangerous parts of my state, we would love to figure out how to have a partnership that’s Constitutional that respects the sort of balance of federalism between the federal government and the state government. And let’s work together to save lives.’”

Joe Scarborough clashes with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s crime approach

Joe Scarborough also criticized Johnson for focusing on the “dignity” of Chicagoans instead of prioritizing their safety.

“The mayor talking about ‘we’re gonna protect people’s dignity in our city,’” Scarborough said. “Well, protect their lives! That’s protecting their dignity!”

Roughly an hour after the segment aired, Trump posted on Truth Social about the shootings in Chicago and hinted at working with Pritzker, though in his own terms.

“At least 54 people were shot in Chicago over the weekend, 8 people were killed,” Trump wrote.

“The last two weekends were similar. Chicago is the worst and most dangerous city in the World, by far. Pritzker needs help badly, he just doesn’t know it yet. I will solve the crime problem fast, just like I did in DC. Chicago will be safe again, and soon," he added.

In the following Truth Social post, Trump wrote, "CHICAGO IS THE MURDER CAPITAL OF THE WORLD!"

Internet reacts to Joe Scarborough's siding with Donald Trump

Joe Scarborough’s remarks sparked strong reactions online, with many surprised to find themselves agreeing with the show host.

“Never thought I’d agree with Joe Scarborough... But here we are. What a wild timeline,” wrote one user on X.

Another added, “Such a rare moment.”

“The situation in Chicago is the same as in Al Capone’s days. Even Scarborough understands the situation,” said another.

One more posted, “Omg....what's wrong with me ? I actually AGREE with Morning Joe!”

Another user joked, “WHAT! was that common sense? Omg my ears deceive me.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.