Here’s what Trump had to say.
On Friday in Charlotte, North Carolina, former President Donald Trump proudly received the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), emphasizing the increased dangers faced by law enforcement officers under current policies supported by Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump, who appeared alongside FOP President Patrick Yoes, expressed his deep gratitude for the endorsement. “We deeply respect the incredible work you do every day,” Trump said. “Unfortunately, your profession faces unprecedented levels of danger, which is both tragic and unacceptable.”
The FOP’s endorsement comes at a time when, according to the organization, 223 officers have been shot in the line of duty as of July 31, with 31 having been killed by gunfire. This marks a slight decrease from previous years but still reflects a troubling trend. In 2023 alone, a record-high 378 officers were shot, and 46 lost their lives.
Trump highlighted his commitment to supporting law enforcement, recounting the frequent visits he makes to the families of fallen officers. “We need to restore the power and respect that our officers deserve,” he promised. “We will do just that.”
Drawing a stark contrast with Vice President Harris’s policies, Trump vowed to launch a “war on crime” if elected. He promised to protect qualified immunity for officers, advocate for the death penalty for those who kill police, and implement a broad crackdown on drug gangs. He criticized Harris and the left for what he described as a “crime wave” plaguing American cities and towns, blaming them for a surge in violence and chaos.
Trump also mocked the leniency in theft penalties implemented during Harris’s tenure as San Francisco’s district attorney, joking about thieves using calculators to exploit the system. He further criticized House Speaker emerita Nancy Pelosi, using her residence’s security issues to highlight perceived failures in protecting the public.
In a related press call, Michigan Police Officers Association President James Tignanelli and Dr. John Lott from the Crime Prevention Research Center highlighted the troubling rise in violent crime statistics under the Biden administration. Lott noted a 43% increase in violent crime since President Biden and Harris took office, contrasting with a 17% decrease during Trump’s presidency.
Despite ongoing legal challenges, including the recent postponement of a sentencing date in the “hush money” case, Trump remained optimistic and defiant. “This case is a baseless attack by my political opponents,” he declared. “We will restore safety and law and order, ensuring that law enforcement gets the support they need.”
In closing, Trump reassured the FOP members that under his leadership, they would receive unprecedented backing. “You’ll have the support you need, just as you did four years ago,” he affirmed.