President Donald Trump outlined plans to expand federal involvement in addressing violent crime, signaling that his administration is closely evaluating five major U.S. cities for potential intervention. Speaking in a February 2026 interview, Trump emphasized that the goal is to restore public safety in areas where local leadership has failed to control rising crime, while stressing that cooperation from city officials remains his preferred approach.

Trump stated that federal assistance would be deployed where invited, pointing to Chicago as an example of how a federal presence can dramatically reduce violence. He claimed that similar efforts have already produced significant improvements elsewhere, arguing that decisive action and visible enforcement can quickly change conditions on the ground. According to Trump, cities that work with federal authorities stand to benefit from safer streets and renewed public confidence.

The president suggested that announcements regarding the targeted cities would come soon, framing the initiative as a continuation of his broader second-term strategy to confront crime head-on. That approach prioritizes targeted deployments, coordination with federal law enforcement agencies, and rapid response to hotspots of criminal activity, particularly in large, Democratic-led urban centers where residents have borne the brunt of policy failures.

While Trump publicly emphasized collaboration and invitations from local governments, the administration has also signaled readiness to act when public safety is at stake. Preparations within the Department of Homeland Security reflect a determination to ensure federal authorities are equipped to respond swiftly to unrest, violent crime, and breakdowns in law and order, even as outreach to local officials continues.

Trump framed the effort as a duty to protect law-abiding citizens who feel abandoned by city leaders unwilling or unable to confront criminals. He argued that restoring order is not a partisan issue but a national responsibility, insisting that Americans deserve to live without fear regardless of which party controls their city hall.

As crime remains a top concern for voters, Trump’s remarks underscore a clear message: the federal government is prepared to act decisively to make American cities safe again, and the administration is moving quickly to turn that promise into action.