Chicago's Trump Tower could soon be located on 'Barack Hussein Obama Way' if a proposal to rename the street is approved. The plan was unveiled at the opening of the Obama Presidential Center last Wednesday, and if passed, an honorary street sign would be erected outside Trump Tower, a move seen as a direct challenge to the White House incumbent.
Petition and Alderman's Proposal
More than 33,000 people signed a petition to rename the street as a tribute to former President Barack Obama, who 'stands for hope and change.' The campaign posted on Threads that the move was designed to 'p*** off the president.' Alderman Brendan Reilly of the 42nd Ward took up the cause, proposing to rename the portion of North Wabash Avenue between East Kinzie Street and East Wacker Drive, where Trump Tower stands.
Trump's Comments on Chicago Crime
The proposal comes after President Donald Trump threatened military intervention in Chicago earlier this month to combat crime. At least seven people were killed and dozens injured in shootings in the city this month. Trump lashed out at Democratic Illinois Governor JB Pritzker for not seeking his help, writing on Truth Social: 'Why isn't Governor Pritzker calling me for help. I could make Chicago a safe City in ONE MONTH, in ONE YEAR, it would be one of the safest!!!'
Crime Trends and Response
Despite Trump's claims, crime rates in Chicago have actually declined over several years, in line with many other US cities, though there has been a slight recent uptick, according to ABC News. Governor Pritzker, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, rebuffed Trump's comments, stating: 'I don't think that we should be listening to this president or the promises that he makes, or that he has any idea on how to protect us in the state of Illinois.'
The Trump Tower houses the five-star Trump International Hotel, with rooms starting at $500 per night. The Trump Organization has been contacted for comment.
