Donald Trump recently made comments suggesting that a brief period of aggressive law enforcement action would deter retail theft, echoing his longstanding support for tougher and potentially more violent policing measures. During a speech in Erie, Pennsylvania, Trump stated, “One rough hour — and I mean real rough — the word will get out and it will end immediately, you know? It will end immediately.”
With just over a month left before Election Day, Trump has intensified his rhetoric by painting immigrants in the country illegally as criminals who aim to harm native-born Americans and claiming that crime rates have surged, despite national statistics indicating otherwise. Throughout his time in office, Trump has consistently advocated for harsh treatment of individuals in police custody and has suggested that law enforcement should be immune to repercussions for their actions.
At a recent event where he received endorsement from the Fraternal Order of Police in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trump promised unwavering support for police, endorsing the expansion of the use of force by law enforcement. He also tied the idea of increased law enforcement activity to the deportation of immigrants at his Bedminster golf club in New Jersey in August, stating that officers should have immunity from prosecution to carry out their duties effectively.
During the racial justice protests in 2020 following the death of George Floyd, Trump posted on social media, “When the looting starts, the shooting starts,” drawing widespread criticism for his response. Although he signed an executive order promoting better police practices, some felt it failed to address systemic racial bias in policing. In a 2017 speech, he seemed to promote rougher treatment of individuals in police custody, disregarding police procedures aimed at ensuring the safety of detainees.
Discussing a California measure approved during Vice President Kamala Harris’ tenure as state attorney general, Trump has criticized a provision that categorizes theft of goods below $950 as a misdemeanor, suggesting it allows for shoplifting without consequences. When questioned about whether his recent comments represent a policy proposal, Trump’s campaign emphasized his commitment to law and order and enforcing existing laws to prevent potential chaos.
Democrats have highlighted the violent events on January 6, 2021, when numerous police officers were injured as a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn the election results. Harris’ campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comments on Trump’s statements, and Trump’s campaign warned of potential “all-out anarchy” if Harris is elected, pointing to her time as California’s attorney general.