President Donald Trump strongly criticized the leadership in Illinois following a violent weekend in Chicago that left 50 people shot.

Speaking on the matter, Trump said, “50 hit with bullets, and you have this governor get up... and he'll say, 'We don't want any protection!' ... Chicago is a hellhole right now.”

The former president’s remarks highlight growing concerns about public safety in Chicago, which has faced recurring gun violence issues. Trump accused the state leadership of refusing federal support, framing the situation as a failure of local governance.

While Trump’s choice of words drew sharp reactions, his comments underline a broader debate about crime reduction strategies and the role of state versus federal intervention in tackling urban violence.

Chicago officials have not yet issued a direct response to the statement, but city leaders have consistently emphasized community-based programs and local policing efforts as their path toward reducing violence.