The age of “reimbursing police” has come to an end. During President Donald Trump’s administration, the Department of Transportation has hailed law enforcement as unsung heroes who help keep our country safe and operational.
From road systems and travel networks to airports and docks, the Department collaborates closely with law enforcement on a variety of initiatives. For many years, their commitment, bravery, and service have ensured safe transportation in this 21st century. This police week, we take a moment to honor their sacrifices.
However, in recent times, law enforcement has been under fire from the political left. An extreme ideology has fostered a troubling animosity toward those who uphold law and order. According to data from the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund, around 1,700 officers lost their lives between 2020 and 2024, marking a more than 50% increase compared to five years prior.
This targeted hostility towards law enforcement is simply unacceptable. Both President Trump and I have committed to returning to fundamental principles, which involves supporting the police. This support includes providing law enforcement with the necessary tools to fulfill the government’s core mission.
In April, President Trump enacted a new executive order titled “Strengthen and unleash American law enforcement to pursue criminals and protect innocent citizens.” This directive aims to empower law enforcement in maintaining public safety, emphasizing that, under Trump, police have the authority to enforce laws against a minority of anarchists.
At the Department of Transportation, we’re working with law enforcement to ensure they receive top-notch information and training. We’re expanding our partnership with the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund to bring crucial programs to various institutions. These initiatives provide critical training for officers, which has successfully reduced on-duty fatalities. In fact, there have been no more than 100 deaths on the job since 1943, many of which could have been avoided.
Traffic-related incidents account for nearly half of all officer fatalities over the last five years. In response, we are raising public awareness about mobility laws nationwide. Following these laws isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also a legal requirement. Ignoring them can lead to serious consequences.
Nonetheless, safeguarding roads and highways is merely one aspect of our role. Our department collaborates with law enforcement across all transport modes. We’ve informed local leaders that they must support law enforcement in ensuring the cleanliness and safety of buses and subways, or they risk losing funding. Recent discussions in Los Angeles have led to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority working with a dedicated police chief for the first time.
Americans deserve a transport system that is efficient, affordable, and dependable. Above all, this network needs to be secure. The dedication and bravery of our law enforcement officers ensure that our planes stay in the air and our ships continue to sail.
President Trump and I are resolute in our goal to reinstate respect for law enforcement. The rule of law only persists through the watchfulness and strength that our police display each day. Their work is both dangerous and unpredictable, yet their resilience and courage are foundational to what makes America remarkable.
