Chicago City Wire

The Illinois Republican Party is pointing to Chicago’s ranking atop a list of the cities with the highest violent crime rates as a sign that public safety in the city needs to change.

The list comes amid years of increasing crime rates coupled with lax prosecution of known criminals.

“Chicago is #1 on this list. Gang violence and drug abuse are rotting Chicago from the inside out,” The Illinois Republican Party said on Facebook. 

A recent report highlights the top 20 U.S. cities with the highest violent crime rates in 2023, shedding light on the gravity of the situation, according to the Southwest Journal. The ranking notes Chicago is known for its alarming levels of criminal activities driven by poverty, gang-related violence, and drug abuse. The city has responded with measures such as an increased police presence, regular patrols, and community outreach programs, while also addressing the issue of gun violence through investigations and involvement of mental health specialists.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's first month in office has been marred by a significant surge in crime, with a notable 38% increase compared to the same period last year. Alarming statistics reveal a staggering 153% spike in vehicle thefts, a 17% rise in aggravated battery cases, a 12% jump in burglaries, and a 5% increase in shootings. Murders saw a slight 5% decrease, resulting in just three fewer fatalities. Despite the mayor's active presence on social media covering various topics, scant attention has been given to public safety and crime-related concerns. Johnson's prior support for defunding the police, coupled with a lack of action to address the ongoing crime wave, raises doubts about his approach to tackling this pressing issue.

During a speech at the Economic Club of Chicago last fall, McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski highlighted the city's crime issue and expressed concern about the safety of McDonald's employees who are hesitant to use public transportation in Chicago.

“Everywhere I go, I’m confronted by the same question: ‘What’s going on in Chicago?’” Kempczinski said. 

Kempczinski, a Chicago resident, said the company sees the crime problem worsening daily. 

“We see every single day in our restaurants what’s happening at society at large,” Kempczinski said to the New York Post. “It’s not going to be something that McDonald’s can solve on its own. We need to be able to do it with the public sector as well.”  

Kempczinski's remarks shed light on the apprehension felt by McDonald's workers in the city regarding their commute and emphasized the significance of addressing the crime problem to ensure a secure environment for all residents.