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This past week, National Police Week was observed around the country. Proclaimed by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, this week revolves around Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and brings tens of thousands of people to our nation's capital to pay homage to our fallen heroes.
In Iowa, we recognize the important role law enforcement plays in protecting our communities. We are home to over 5,000 dedicated officers who are tasked with upholding the rule of law even if it means risking their lives. We will always be grateful for their contributions.
During National Police Week, I had the privilege of meeting with Iowa law enforcement officers and organizations in my D.C. office. We discussed important issues, including increasing mental health resources and acquiring necessary equipment. There was one theme that was recurrent in all my discussions: police funding and the lefts’ efforts to defund and dismantle police departments around the country.
Over four years ago, police departments everywhere faced unprecedented challenges from the radical 'Defund the Police' movement. Calls to disband police departments in cities like Minneapolis and Los Angeles and to replace them with mental health services, lacked foresight and practicality.
Subsequently, cities began slashing police budgets, and some such as Seattle even experimenting with Autonomous Zones.
Autonomous Zones embodied chaos, with unchecked lawlessness leading to arson, vandalism, and tragic loss of life. Though their prevalence has waned, the scars remain, with cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago and Washington D.C. grappling with the aftermath of the lawless zones.
These democrat-run cities have enacted policies that enable criminal activity. Stripping police authority, defunding departments, creating autonomous zones, and embracing initiatives like cashless bail have emboldened criminals and led to a surge in crime.
The message needs to be clear on this issue: defunding police breeds chaos and endangers communities. It undermines the very fabric of law and order, leaving officers powerless against criminal activity they swore to confront.
The necessary now is to reverse this dangerous trend. Rather than constraining law enforcement, we must strengthen their resources and support their mission to uphold justice. Investing in law enforcement isn't just logical; it's vital for ensuring public safety and preserving the integrity of our communities.
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