PARAMUS – Political rhetoric tends to be simple.
Here it is when it comes to public safety:
Republicans support the “blue” and safe communities; Democrats not so much.
Notwithstanding that generality, more than a dozen state troopers convened Tuesday afternoon to back the reelection of Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer.
Explained Wayne Blanchard, the president of the State Troopers Fraternal Association of New Jersey:
Elected officials, regardless of party, bring their own agenda, their own portfolio with them. And he said that “Josh from day one,” has been a supporter of law enforcement and public safety.
“Josh has not just said that, he’s proven it,” Blanchard added.
Gottheimer, who has represented CD-5 ranging across northern New Jersey for eight years, estimated that he has delivered about $65 million in grants to police and for public safety in general.
That includes money for bulletproof vests, fire equipment and many other police needs.
“You have to invest, you can’t defund,” Gottheimer said.
That, of course, raised the most recent issue that has caused political problems for many Democrats. The “Defund the Police” movement that surfaced after the killing of George Floyd in 2020.
Gottheimer, who is not normally in line with his party’s left wing, never embraced that mantra.
Blanchard seemed to notice, reminding the crowd that Gottheimer “stood up to his own caucus by the way.”
The congressman and the troopers acknowledged that the criticism of law enforcement has had a negative impact – it’s become harder to recruit police officers.
Saying that work has to be done in that regard, Gottheimer said he hopes to win reelection and get a seat on the House’s bipartisan law enforcement caucus. He would replace the late Bill Pascrell on that body.
The locale for today’s event was the IBEW union hall, a popular spot for Bergen County Democratic gatherings.
Gottheimer praised the troopers association as good union men and women, adding that Democrats traditionally have done a better job than Republicans in supporting union interests.
Democrats have about a 50,000 voter-registration advantage in CD-5, making Gottheimer the favorite for reelection. The Republican candidate is Mary Jo Guinchard.
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In a recent statement, Congressman Josh Gottheimer has expressed his strong support for law enforcement officers and their dedication to keeping our communities safe. Gottheimer, who represents New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District, emphasized the importance of supporting and standing behind our police officers in the face of increasing challenges and criticism.
Gottheimer highlighted the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make every day to protect and serve their communities, often putting their own lives on the line to ensure public safety. He praised their professionalism, bravery, and commitment to upholding the rule of law, and stressed the need for all Americans to show appreciation and respect for their service.
The congressman also addressed the recent calls for police reform and accountability, acknowledging that there are legitimate concerns that need to be addressed. He emphasized the importance of working together to find solutions that improve policing practices while also ensuring that officers have the resources and support they need to do their jobs effectively.
Gottheimer’s statement comes at a time when law enforcement agencies across the country are facing increased scrutiny and criticism following high-profile incidents of police misconduct and brutality. The congressman’s vocal support for law enforcement is likely to be welcomed by many in his district who value the important work that police officers do to keep their communities safe.
Overall, Congressman Gottheimer’s statement serves as a reminder of the vital role that law enforcement plays in our society and the need for all Americans to come together to support and strengthen our police forces. By standing behind our officers and working collaboratively to address issues of concern, we can ensure that our communities remain safe and secure for all.
