GUS ON THE ISSUES
Law and Order
The problem: Democrats’ failed social justice experiment of defunding police, letting criminals go unpunished, and engaging in anti-law enforcement rhetoric has yielded deadly consequences for Americans. There has been a dramatic spike in crime throughout the nation, with more than a dozen cities setting new homicide records in 2021. Shootings of police officers have increased by 63% compared to 2020, and tragically more police officers have been killed in the line of duty in 2021 than in any year since 1995. This is what happens when you portray the brave men and women who risk their lives to keep our communities safe as the villain. Despite radical Democrats’ calls to defund police, a new national poll shows that 69% of Americans believe increasing funding for the police will decrease crime. Instead of owning how their behavior has fueled this crime crisis and emboldened criminals, Democrats’ have predictably called for more control policies. Gus Bilirakis understands that we will never make our country safer by infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves and their families. He has and will always be a vocal defender of the 2nd Amendment.
Bilirakis Action
Gus Bilirakis also agrees with the majority of Americans that will decrease crime by supporting law enforcement. His pro-law enforcement record backs up those beliefs. He has a long history of supporting record increases for law enforcement programs, pushing social media companies to work with law enforcement to better protect children, and improving emergency communication systems.
He has worked with federal, state and local law enforcement on a variety of critical issues including: securing the border, strengthening cybersecurity protections, stopping human trafficking, tackling addiction and mental health reform, and supporting programs to help victims of crime. Gus Bilirakis has partnered with the law enforcement community to deliver educational programs to help seniors and vulnerable populations from becoming a victim. He also helped Pasco County obtain a special designation for fighting drug trafficking. And, he sponsored legislation to increase school resource officers and empower law enforcement.
Recently, Gus helped secure over $5 million for new deputies in Citrus County and $500,000 for deputies in Hernanco County. Gus has championed initiatives to recognize first responders and ensure they have access to the tools they need to do their jobs effectively. Gus Bilirakis is proud to have the endorsement of Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco and Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis. He has always and will always back the Blue.