Events in recent weeks have highlighted the importance of safety, security, and the vital role of law enforcement in our communities. Violence has no place in American life, yet we have seen troubling attacks and disruptions within our country as well as international unrest which puts Americans abroad and our allies at risk. In the midst of these challenges, the government shutdown, now ongoing for well over a week, hinders federal operations and risks delaying pay to members of law enforcement and the military. Despite the obstruction by congressional Democrats, the Trump administration has taken action to boost law enforcement efforts, address threats to our communities, and promote lasting peace in the world.
Beginning with securing our nation’s borders, President Trump has demonstrated leadership to restore the rule of law on the border and elsewhere in his first nine months in office. I appreciate the president taking seriously the violence in various cities in our country. A marked rise in assaults and bounties placed on Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers shows the danger law enforcement officials face in their work to bring violent criminals to justice.
I am pleased the Trump administration took concrete steps to begin construction of additional border wall enhanced with state-of-the-art technology, funded through legislation I worked to draft and enact this past summer. The administration also continues to confront drug trafficking activity in the Caribbean, conducting strikes to prevent vessels carrying illicit substances from reaching the United States.
