Calls Attack “Devoid of Facts” and “Dangerous;” Pledges to Work with President When He stops “Grandstanding”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today as part of President Donald Trump’s visit to Long Island, the President attacked mayors across the country as “pathetic” and “weak.” In response, U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) President and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu issued the following statement:
“The President’s comments today prove how out of touch he is with the realities of life in American cities. Mayors’ number one priority is – and always will be – the safety and protection of their residents. There is no daylight between the mayors of our cities and the uniformed officers who work tirelessly to keep us safe every single day. Any other notion is not only entirely devoid of facts, it is dangerous and counterproductive.
“Rather than flying in and throwing disingenuous barbs, the President could learn a lot by listening to mayors who are on the ground, doing the hard work to keep our cities and their residents safe. Mayors are the ones who work day in and day out serving residents who deserve a government that solves their problems and protects them.
“As mayors entrusted with keeping our communities safe, we appreciate efforts to reduce gang violence in our country. Supporting law enforcement also involves bipartisan investment in programs like COPS – a proven program that provides the support our police need.
“When the President is ready to stop grandstanding and discuss policy to keep Americans safe, we’re ready to work with him.”
One month ago, USCM unveiled the Leadership for America: Mayors’ Agenda for the Future – a bipartisan plan that includes important and strategic tactics supported by Mayors from both sides of the aisle, police chiefs and others to promote the safety and security of our communities.