Mayor Johnson Labels Trump's Economic Record an "Abysmal Failure" Amidst Chicago Budget Debate

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump, asserting that Trump "has done more to harm our economy than any other president in modern history" and calling his record an "abysmal failure." The statement, made during discussions surrounding Chicago's 2026 budget, underscores a growing political and economic divide as the city grapples with its own fiscal challenges.

"Donald Trump has done more to harm our economy than any other president in modern history… He is an abysmal failure," Mayor Johnson stated, as highlighted in a recent social media post.

Mayor Johnson's remarks come as he champions his "Protecting Chicago Budget" for 2026, which proposes new taxes on large corporations, tech companies, and high-income earners. These measures, including a potential social media amusement tax and a corporate "head tax," are intended to generate revenue for mental health services, youth programs, and affordable housing, while also offsetting what Johnson refers to as "Trump cuts" to federal funding. The mayor's office estimates the social media tax alone could generate $31 million annually.

The proposed budget, which seeks to address a projected $146 million deficit for 2025 and ongoing pension obligations, has sparked debate. While Johnson frames these taxes as necessary to protect Chicagoans from federal policy impacts and ensure the wealthy "pay their fair share," critics, including Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, have expressed concerns that such taxes could deter businesses and hinder economic growth in the city. Pritzker notably opposed the reintroduction of a corporate head tax, arguing it penalizes employment.

Donald Trump's economic policies during his presidency (2017-2021) were characterized by significant tax cuts, particularly for corporations, deregulation, and a focus on trade protectionism through tariffs. Supporters often point to a period of low unemployment and steady GDP growth prior to the COVID-19 pandemic as evidence of his economic success. Critics, however, argue that the tax cuts disproportionately benefited the wealthy, increased the national debt, and that his trade policies led to economic instability and higher costs for consumers and businesses.

As Chicago's City Council prepares for budget hearings, Mayor Johnson's strong stance against Trump's economic legacy sets a clear political tone. The outcome of the budget debate and the reception of Johnson's tax proposals will be closely watched as Chicago navigates its financial future amidst national economic discussions.