Former President Donald Trump recently addressed the California GOP and shared his controversial plan to combat rampant shoplifting in the state. He suggested implementing strict law enforcement measures, including the potential use of force against shoplifters, if he were reelected.
During a luncheon with the California GOP, Trump expressed his concerns about the breakdown of law and order in cities like Oakland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. He proposed a straightforward solution: “If you rob a store, you can fully expect to be shot as you are leaving that store. Shot!”
A jewelry store in Manhattan Beach, California was nearly robbed before the owner decided to get involved. More store owners (especially in blue areas) need extra protection against thieves, shoplifters, etc.
Never be afraid to defend yourself! #California #guns #Protection pic.twitter.com/CCt3dwtsgm
— 🇺🇸✨🔭 David Shier 🦆🐨🇺🇸 (@davco61383) October 12, 2023
Trump’s strong stance on law and order has resonated with conservative voters, and he currently leads the early GOP primary polls. Despite praising the nation’s law enforcement agencies, he criticized current political leaders for hindering law enforcement’s effectiveness.
Trump firmly believes that his proposed approach would quickly deter criminals, stating that the message of “they shoot you” would spread within minutes, transforming the nation in just one day.
Do shoplifters count as Karens? pic.twitter.com/uNTrcqNFp3
— Karen Clips (@KarenFootage) October 13, 2023
Furthermore, Trump emphasized the need for retribution for theft and destruction, which he sees as contributing to the “ruination of our country.” This aligns with the conservative perspective of prioritizing law and order and supporting strong punitive measures to deter crime.
Trump’s speech followed the second GOP presidential primary debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Despite not participating in the debate, he remains the frontrunner in the GOP primary, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley trailing in early polls.
As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, it remains to be seen how these comments will impact Trump’s campaign and the broader political landscape.
This article appeared in The Patriot Brief and has been published here with permission.
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