GOP House members “will proudly back the blue,” according to Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who spoke during Peace Officers Memorial Day on Wednesday. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) added, “These officers exemplify the American spirit; they are the best of us.”
The Republican lawmakers highlighted the importance of law enforcement officers, especially as some lawmakers and Democrats nationwide argue for other services instead.
Sheriff Chad Bianco of Riverside, California, spoke on behalf of law enforcement leaders and criticized the notion that “in this alternate universe, law enforcement officers are the bad guys, and criminals are somehow victims of society.” Bianco explained how things have drastically changed within the past decade, with the rule of law being “a requirement of a civilized society.”
Several lawmakers have criticized President Joe Biden’s policies in particular, and a handful of congressmen who worked in law enforcement decided to do something about it. Reps. Clay Higgins (R-LA), Pete Stauber (R-MN), and Mike Ezell (R-MS) are just some of the retired officers who have authored pieces of legislation to assist the men and women in blue who work on behalf of their communities.
The legislation set to hit the House floor includes addressing anti-police attacks, expanding the concealed carry right of police officers, protecting police in the line of duty, and deporting illegal immigrants who assault law enforcement. One bill focuses on supporting the mental health of those who serve.
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House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) reflected on the 2017 baseball practice shooting and said the officers who came to his aid are “the only reason I’m here today before you, alive.”
It remains to be seen whether the pieces of legislation will obtain bipartisan support. Scalise hopes both sides of the aisle will recall officers saving their lives, regardless of party affiliation.
