Bruce’s Take with Bruce Westerman Arkansas’ Fourth District
Every day, law enforcement officers put on their uniforms, say goodbye to their families, and leave their homes to risk their lives to ensure the safety of their communities. During National Police Week, we commemorated the unsung heroes in our communities – the men and women in blue.
Violent crime is increasing in many parts of the country, in communities large and small. Local police officers play a critical role in protecting us and our families. It’s frustrating that amid the crime crisis, some people are continuing to turn their backs on the brave men and women at the forefront of keeping us safe.
In the past three years, the number of officers shot in the line of duty has increased by 57%, according to the National Fraternal Order of Police. In 2023 alone, over 99 officers have been shot, 10 of whom have lost their lives.
With the rising support for anti-police legislation coupled with skyrocketing crime against police officers, it’s become increasingly important we back the blue and stand with law enforcement.
In honor of National Police Week, House Republicans brought several bills to the floor that honor America’s law enforcement heroes. One was a resolution I cosponsored to express unwavering support for law enforcement officers and recognize the sacrifices of families who lost loved ones who gave their lives while serving their communities. The resolution passed with broad support and recognized the law enforcement community for their acts of sacrifice and heroism, while also memorializing those killed in the line of duty.
Before the passage of the resolution, I joined Speaker Kevin Mccarthy in the Third Annual Back the Blue Bike Tour to pay tribute to the sacrifices law enforcement officers make in the pursuit of preserving safe and secure communities. I rode alongside other House Republicans and law enforcement officers on a bike ride through DC, starting at the Capitol and finishing at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. At the conclusion of the bike ride, members dedicated wreaths and honored law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
I will always back the blue and stand with law enforcement officers. This includes supporting legislation that empowers police and condemns the unprecedented efforts to defund and dismantle local law enforcement. I’m working diligently with my House Republican colleagues, many of whom have worn a badge themselves, to advance legislation that strengthens our laws to cut back on violent crime and support law enforcement.
As National Police Week comes to an end, please join me in praying for the men and women who risk their lives to keep the 4th District safe and for the families who have tragically lost their loved ones in the line of duty.
Until next week,
Bruce Westerman Arkansas’ Fourth District