A Michigan police union, the Police Officers Association of Michigan, has endorsed former President Donald Trump for president, making it the second police union to do so. This decision has sparked criticism from retired police officers and others in law enforcement who feel that Trump’s actions on Jan. 6 have been harmful to police officers. Trump has glorified and even promised to pardon individuals who have violently assaulted police officers, yet the union claims that he has stood firmly with law enforcement during times of crisis. However, Trump’s actions on Jan. 6 suggest otherwise.
Police unions have historically supported Republican candidates over Democrats, and some Republicans believe that this is the reason why some unions continue to support Trump despite his controversial actions. The demographics of police officers and union leaders often align with Trump’s base, as many are drawn to his strongman persona. While there are some law enforcement officers who are uncomfortable with Trump, they are seen as exceptions rather than the rule. The Michigan union’s endorsement of Trump comes after a similar endorsement from the International Union of Police Associations in Florida, reflecting continuing support for the former president among some in law enforcement.
Despite Trump’s endorsements from some police unions, there are critics within the law enforcement community who believe that Trump does not truly care about law and order or police officers. His actions leading up to Jan. 6 have led to criminal charges and prosecutions in multiple states, with some cases expected to go to trial later this year. Despite his legal troubles, Trump continues to gain support from certain segments of the population, including some police officers and their unions. These endorsements highlight the divisions within law enforcement and the broader public regarding support for Trump.
Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn, who was present during the Jan. 6 insurrection, has criticized police unions for their support of Trump. He believes that the unions are misguided in backing someone who has shown disregard for law enforcement and has failed to condemn the violence that occurred on that day. Dunn, who is now running for Congress in Maryland, believes that police departments should not align themselves with a president who prioritizes his own interests over the well-being of officers and the rule of law.
The endorsements of Trump by police unions have highlighted the political divisions within law enforcement and the wider public. Trump’s actions leading up to Jan. 6 and his subsequent support for those involved in the insurrection have raised questions about his commitment to law and order. While some police unions continue to support Trump, there are many in law enforcement who are critical of his behavior and believe that he does not have the best interests of police officers at heart. As Trump faces multiple legal challenges, his support within certain segments of law enforcement continues to be a contentious issue.
