Citing Smith’s Consistent Support of Law Enforcement and Steadfast
Opposition to “Defunding the Police”
Monmouth County, NJ – Today, the State Troopers Fraternal Association of New Jersey (STFA)–which represents over 1800 officers across the state–announced their full endorsement of Congressman Chris Smith for re-election in the Fourth Congressional District.
“We remain grateful for the leadership, commitment and support you have consistently demonstrated on behalf of our members and all first responders,” said Wayne D. Blanchard, President of the STFA. “We wish you much success and pledge our support in the upcoming June primary election and look forward to working with you in the years ahead.”
Among the many reasons cited for the endorsement, Blanchard pointed to Smith’s unmatched success in securing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I doubt that ANY of your challengers could have provided this crucial outcome absent your experience, contacts, and dedication” Blanchard said.
Additionally, he noted the several bills Smith has supported and helped introduce in Congress, such as the Protecting America’s First Responders Act–a new law which increases benefits for officers and their families if they are disabled or killed while performing their duties–and the HELPER Act, to create a VA-style federal home loan program to help officers purchase a house.
Smith has also stood strong amid increasingly radical calls to “Defund the Police,” and on two occasions has voted against bills that abolish the principle of qualified immunity–a legal doctrine that protects officers and other public servants from being personally sued for their conduct on the job.
“Our brave police officers put their lives on the line every day, all while working in an increasingly thankless and hostile environment–and they need our unequivocal support,” Smith said. “I am committed to working in Congress to make their jobs easier, not harder, by crafting policies that deliver better pay and working conditions and increased safety for our men and women in blue.”
“I am sincerely grateful to President Blanchard, and all the members of the STFA, for the trust they have continued to place in me. Working together, we can end Washington’s anti-police policies and finally deliver for the hardworking officers who keep our communities safe.”
