Letters

Surveys continue to show that law and order is a top priority for Americans. Appropriately so. We all deserve to feel safe in our communities and have every right to expect our elected officials will work to ensure our safety and uphold the law.

Republicans like Nick LaLota have claimed to be the law-and-order candidates — but if you look beyond the fear-mongering rhetoric, it’s clear that it is the Democratic challenger, John Avlon, who supports policies and programs that will improve safety and security in our community.

Over the past several years, Republicans have demonstrated a consistent pattern of disrespect and neglect for the law and law enforcement, including:

Support for Donald Trump, a convicted felon who resisted the lawful transfer of power and has consistently attacked law enforcement officials carrying out their responsibilities in his trials, and threatened to use the Justice Department to go after his political opponents should he win this election.

Opposition to the U.S. southern border bill, which included extensive funding for increased border agents.

Opposition to common-sense gun policies, like universal background checks and assault weapon bans.

Support for budget proposals to cut funding for the Justice Department, including the FBI and local police departments.

Consistent opposition to IRS funding for agents to enforce the law and assure that the ultra-rich pay their fair share of taxes.

Support for pardoning the January 6 rioters who fought and attacked law enforcement officers and have been lawfully convicted by the court system.

Despite their rhetoric for law and order, Republicans like Nick LaLota, when applying the law to Trump, defend efforts to subvert our rule of law. Further, the reality is that violent crime went up under the Trump administration and declined under the Biden/Harris administration.

Rather than just complaining about issues and fostering opposition, Democrats like John Avlon are putting forth common-sense policies and programs that promote accountability and prevention. Avlon provides a fresh perspective on how we might address our challenges, including:

Support for the bipartisan U.S. southern border bill that would provide additional border guards.

Support for common-sense gun policies like universal background checks, assault rifle bans, closing gun show loopholes and addressing ghost guns.

Support for expanded drug control efforts, particularly fentanyl and expanded mental health services.

Support for economic development through educational reform and jobs training.

John Avlon has consistently expressed his support for common sense policies that can better help and protect the residents of Congressional District 1. Vote John Avlon to support more effective strategies to improve law and order within our community.

For more information on John Avlon’s law and order positions see johnavlon.com/policy.

Edward Salsberg

Donna Vallone

East Quogue