Trump, Clinton Differ Greatly on Policing

Aug. 24, 2016
Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton both recently completed a survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton both recently completed a 10-question survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and their answers greatly differed.

Responses: Clinton | Trump

While Clinton stresses the need to "rebuild the bonds of trust between our law enforcement officers and our communities," Trump takes a much different approach, saying he is "focused on restoring the rule of law in the United States."

When it comes to lowering crime, Clinton pointing to declining crime rates over the past two decades and the need to "ensure that local law enforcement has the resources they need to do their jobs effectively and keep our communities safe.

On the same issue, Trump touts his plans for illegal immigration, drug trafficking and human trafficking and that "Cooperation, not dictation, will be the way ahead for all who swear to defend the people."

IACP President and Police Chief of Wellesley, Mass., Terry Cunningham, told The Washington Post that while the group does not endorse candidates, it does want to be ready to work with whomever wins this November.

"It’s nice to see criminal justice reform and criminal justice issues are on their agendas at this point. It was kind of shocking that there wasn't a lot more discussion of these issues during the primaries," he told the newspaper. "Most policing every day is handled by state and local police. But there are clearly times when we need our national partners and stakeholders. From my perception, they've been there to work right alongside us."

Another difference between the two candidates' responses was length. Trump's survey answers filled four pages and didn't go into great detail, while Clinton's totaled 12 pages and provided more detail on how she would handle issues facing law enforcement.

One topic both candidates on agree was increasing funding to deal with mental health issues. While Trump said he will work with Congress, Clinton said that she would "pursue a robust mental health agenda that ensures Americans have access to mental health treatment."

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