Recently, the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO) announced its decision to endorse President Donald J. Trump, after two-thirds of its members expressed their support in a virtual meeting, President Mick McHale said.
In an interview on Fox News @ Night, McHale credited President Trump’s support of law enforcement legislation such as the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, saying he looked forward to the President’s plan to secure military surplus for police officers.
THANK YOU @NAPOpolice and their 241,000 brave law enforcement members for a FULL & COMPLETE ENDORSEMENT! I will ALWAYS back the men and women in blue, and never let you down. LAW AND ORDER will prevail! #LESM https://t.co/tJnA0EpuTR
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 16, 2020
Commissioner Bernie Kerik, a guest on the show, noted that the endorsement was significant because NAPO represents more than 1,000 police associations and 241,000 officers. Furthermore, he highlighted the lack of support Democratic leaders have been showing police departments and officers in many cities, pointing out that the President has offered a consistent alternative.
The NAPO had not endorsed a candidate in the 2016 election. Still, the organization had previously endorsed former President Barack Obama and then-Vice President Joe Biden in both the 2008 and 2012 elections.
These developments come at a time when many police departments are struggling to manage heightened crime levels in their cities. The divide between Republicans and Democrats on the issue of how to approach law enforcement is becoming increasingly clear, with President Trump having consistently stood on the side of increased support for police.
The endorsement from NAPO is likely to carry a certain political weight, both with its members and beyond. It will be interesting to see how it affects both the political landscape and the conversations around police reform.