A nonpartisan police leadership organization, Police Leaders for Community Safety, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 White House race against former President Donald Trump. The organization, which is the only national law enforcement advocacy group to endorse political candidates, is made up of prominent police professionals who aim to promote policies that enhance community safety and law enforcement. Harris received this endorsement following Trump’s endorsement by the National Fraternal Order of Police, the largest police union in the country. Sue Riseling, chair of Police Leaders for Community Safety, emphasized Harris’ commitment to public safety and the rule of law during her prosecutorial career and legislative work.
Board member David Mahoney, a former sheriff and president of the National Sheriffs’ Association, highlighted Harris’ dedication to protecting people, supporting victims, and holding criminals accountable. Vice Chair Rick Myers, a former police chief, praised Harris for her stance on issues such as gun violence and the Second Amendment. Crime remains a key concern for American voters, despite national downward trends in many crime categories. Trump has criticized Harris for being soft on crime and anti-police, while advocating for more aggressive policing and less federal oversight. In contrast, Harris has emphasized the Biden-Harris administration’s support for law enforcement funding and calls for stronger federal oversight and reduced military equipment for local police departments.
Harris has focused on Trump’s legal troubles and his relationship with law enforcement, suggesting that he has been unfriendly towards those who investigate him. The campaign managers for Harris have also highlighted her efforts to enforce the rule of law, increase conviction rates, hold violent criminals accountable, and make the criminal justice system fairer, especially for communities of color. The endorsement from Police Leaders for Community Safety follows support from over 100 law enforcement officials, including those who protected the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021 attack by Trump supporters, as well as 700 national security officials. The campaign contends that the American people face a choice between a candidate with a career enforcing the law (Harris) and one who has faced felony convictions (Trump) in the upcoming election.
The 2024 presidential race between Harris and Trump is characterized by differing opinions on law enforcement and crime issues. Harris has been endorsed by law enforcement groups who appreciate her record in protecting communities and supporting victims, while Trump has been criticized for his approach to law enforcement and his legal troubles. Despite overall crime trends, the issue remains a priority for voters and has influenced the candidates’ positions on issues such as policing, oversight, and funding. Harris emphasizes her commitment to upholding the rule of law and her efforts to make the criminal justice system more equitable, arguing that she is the better choice for voters concerned with public safety and law enforcement support.
As the campaign progresses, Harris and Trump continue to address crime and law enforcement in their platforms, with Harris focusing on her record as a prosecutor and advocate for fairer justice systems. The endorsement from Police Leaders for Community Safety underscores her support from law enforcement professionals who value her approach to public safety and crime prevention. With the backing of influential law enforcement figures and national security officials, Harris seeks to demonstrate her commitment to the rule of law and her vision for a safer, more just society. The upcoming election will present voters with a choice between two candidates with contrasting views on law enforcement, crime, and public safety, highlighting the importance of these issues in shaping the future direction of the country.
