AUSTIN — Violence in Chicago continued as an issue in the presidential race Monday with Mayor Rahm Emanuel charging that Donald Trump's recent comments about the crisis were about politics, not actual concern for the city or its residents.
"I'm looking to solve the problem, I'm looking for solutions, not trying to play an election game," Emanuel told reporters after being questioned about Trump's comments in recent days, including the Republican nominee's contention that Chicago police need City Hall support to get "tougher" on criminals.
"He's got an election, he's not interested in Chicago," Emanuel said at event at Christopher House, 5235 W. Belden Ave.
Last week, Trump told the Fox News Channel that Chicago police could end the city's violence "in one week" if they wanted to.
"I know police in Chicago," Trump said. "If they had the authority, they could get it done. How? By being very much tougher than they are right now."
On Saturday, the GOP's pick for president tweeted about the murder of Nyka Aldridge, a relative of NBA star Dwayne Wade.
“Dwayne Wade's cousin was just shot and killed walking her baby in Chicago. Just what I have been saying. African-Americans will VOTE TRUMP!” Trump said on Twitter.
Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson was asked about Trump's comments Sunday by reporters. Responded Johnson: "If you have a magic bullet to stop the violence anywhere - not just in Chicago, but in America - share it with us."
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Alex Nitkin talks about Supt. Johnson's response to Trump's claims.
