The tug of war between activists planning to rally during the NATO Summit in Chicago and a new mayor determined to keep order in a city with a checkered past of protests has come down to a parade route. After long insisting there would be enough police to keep order during the gathering of U.S. and European leaders in May, city officials now say there won't be enough officers to watch a large march along the requested route. The claim has raised eyebrows because officials, all the way up to President Barack Obama, expressed confidence in Chicago's ability to handle the summit -- and the thousands of expected protesters.
Related:
- Hearing Officer To Rule On NATO Protest March Route By Week’s End [CBS Chicago]
- NATO protest interest hasn't waned, police say [Chicago Tribune]