The White House blamed Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's no cash bail law for the attack on 26-year-old Bethany MaGee, who was set on fire on a Chicago train on 17 November 2025. The statement came on 25 November and claimed the law let the suspect move freely despite a long criminal history.
Officials said the policy created the circumstances that allowed the assault. They argued the case showed how recent reforms failed to protect the public. The response drew national attention and renewed debate over safety in Chicago.
