In a speech given in Erie, Pennsylvania, Donald Trump suggested that “one rough hour” of aggressive law enforcement could put an end to rising retail theft. His remarks come just weeks before Election Day, where Trump has been ramping up his tough-on-crime rhetoric.
During the rally, Trump claimed that crime could be immediately stopped with a short, forceful burst of policing. “One rough hour — and I mean real rough — the word will get out and it will end immediately,” he stated, echoing his long-standing support for increased use of force by law enforcement.
In past speeches, Trump has tied his calls for stronger law enforcement to immigration policies. In August at his Bedminster golf club, he linked the need for tougher policing to deporting immigrants, advocating that police officers be granted immunity from prosecution to perform their duties without fear of punishment.
Trump’s comments reflect his history of encouraging law enforcement to use force. During his presidency in 2017, he appeared to endorse rougher treatment of suspects in police custody, drawing criticism from law enforcement agencies. In contrast, Trump has continued to advocate for policies that grant officers more leeway in their use of force.
In Pennsylvania, Trump also criticized a measure passed in California during Vice President Kamala Harris’ tenure as attorney general. The provision, which reduced thefts under $950 to a misdemeanor, has been a point of contention for Trump, who claims it encourages shoplifting with fewer consequences.
When asked if his comments amounted to a formal policy proposal, Trump’s campaign responded by reaffirming his position as a “law and order” president who supports enforcing existing laws. His campaign spokesperson warned of potential “all-out anarchy” if Kamala Harris were elected, citing her record as California’s top prosecutor.
Trump’s comments come amidst ongoing debates over the role of law enforcement in addressing crime, with critics pointing to events like the January 6 Capitol riots, where numerous officers were injured. Despite this, Trump continues to focus on expanding law enforcement power as a central point of his campaign.
