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Johnson’s comments come amidst a national debate about police reform and criminal justice. He dismisses claims that law enforcement is effective or necessary, instead positioning violence as a symptom of societal neglect and systemic failure. He also criticizes federal intervention, stating that Chicago has not requested increased federal enforcement, including the deployment of National Guard troops.
Furthermore, Johnson suggests that elected officials and social workers are doing enough to curb violence, emphasizing social programs over policing. However, data indicates that such measures alone have yet to stem the tide of gun violence.