President Trump on Tuesday blasted the “anti-police prejudice” in America, calling for those who kill officers to receive the death penalty.
Trump, speaking at an event honoring officers killed on duty, offered pro-police commentary characteristic of his campaign rallies and sharply contrasting with recent condemnations of alleged police prejudice against minorities.
“If we want to bring down violent crime then we must stand up for our police,” Trump said. “We must confront and condemn dangerous anti-police prejudice. Can you believe this prejudice with respect to our police? We’re not going to let bad things happen to our police.”
Trump’s wide-ranging remarks included calls for the death penalty for people convicted of killing police, and denunciation of the gang MS-13 and “catch and release” immigration enforcement.
He also boasted of providing surplus military gear to police departments, which was curtailed during the Obama administration amid concern about militarized policing.
“We must show appreciation, gratitude, and respect for those who police our streets and patrol our communities,” Trump said.
“In 2016, an officer was assaulted in America on an average of every 10 minutes, can you believe that? It’s outrageous and its unacceptable,” he said to applause. “We believe criminals who kill our police should get the death penalty. Bring it forth.”
