National Police Week

Floor Speech

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Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, as we begin National Police Week, we recognize the brave men and women of law enforcement who serve and protect our communities every day.

It was President Ronald Reagan who said: ``Evil is powerless if the good are unafraid.''

From carrying out high-risk warrants to patrolling our neighborhoods to maintain order, we rely on police officers, our sheriffs, and our troopers to keep us safe.

The bravery that they show in the face of evil--rushing toward an emergency is what stands between lawlessness and order on our streets, and ultimately safety in our homes.

Sadly, we are so often reminded that there are those in this Congress who have looked to defund our law enforcement--actively working to strip them of the tools, the training, and the equipment that they need in order to allow us to remain safe.

So far this year, 135 officers have been wounded by gunfire, 38 by ambush-style attacks, with 15 officers losing their lives in the line of duty, the ultimate sacrifice.

While crime continues to rise in our cities, it is unconscionable that anyone would seek to take away the resources and support for those who have the courage to serve and protect us every day and every night.

Matthew 5 says: ``Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.''

The officers across Pennsylvania embody this scripture.

This week, please join me in praying for the men and women who wear the badge. Join me in praying for their safety.

Let's recommit ourselves to standing with our law enforcement officers. Let's pledge to never defund the police. In this Congress, let's promise to always back the men and women in blue.

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