A Chicago priest has strongly criticized President Donald Trump after he commented on a violent weekend in the city where six people were killed and over 30 were injured. Father Michael Pfleger, a prominent figure from St. Sabina Catholic Church, told Trump to shut up following the president’s remarks on social media.

During the period from Friday evening to midnight Sunday, Chicago experienced 24 shootings with 39 victims, including six fatalities. The Chicago Police Department provided these figures. Trump responded to the violence with a post on Truth Social, suggesting the deployment of federal forces to Chicago. He boasted that he could make the city safe, referencing past improvements in Washington, D.C., under his leadership.

Lots of Killing going on in Chicago. 22 people shot, at least 4 Dead, Trump wrote. Why isn’t Governor Pritzker calling me for help.

Pfleger criticized Trump’s statements, arguing that the president often lies and questioned his promises of quickly solving gun violence. Pfleger urged Trump to return funding for gun violence prevention in Chicago and nationwide, funds which have reportedly been withdrawn.

In response to ongoing violence, community groups, faith leaders, and city officials gathered to support the creation of a Department of Gun Violence Prevention. This proposed department would be dedicated to reducing gun violence and coordinating city-wide prevention programs, according to FOX 32.

State and city leaders oppose federal intervention, preferring investment in community-level crime prevention initiatives. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson highlighted Trump’s successes in other cities, urging Chicago leaders to seek similar federal assistance.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed a desire for President Trump to invest in Black America, criticizing the administration’s funding cuts to education, housing, and healthcare. Johnson argued that Trump’s promises were inconsistent with his actions, mentioning city efforts to employ young people, expand mental health services, and invest in affordable housing.