President Donald Trump welcomed first responders to the White House on Wednesday, delivering remarks that celebrated their service while highlighting what he called historic achievements in public safety under his administration.
"Today, we're thrilled to welcome to the White House many incredible first responders — including firefighters, a lot of friends of mine here, like Paul," Trump said, referencing National Border Patrol Council President Paul Perez. "Paul's a very good speaker, by the way. That's why I never have him speak when I'm around, because he can take over the mic."
Trump: 'We Have Your Back — 100%'
The president assured first responders that his administration has prioritized their needs since taking office. "From day one, my administration has worked tirelessly to give our first responders the resources, support and legal protection you so richly deserve," Trump said. "And we have your back 100%. We don't play games."
Trump pointed to declining crime statistics as evidence of the effectiveness of his policies. "Together, in less than two years, we've achieved the largest drop in violent crime ever recorded," he said. "The murder rate plummeted to the lowest level in 125 years since the year 1900."
He added that drug overdose deaths have fallen every single month he has been in office and that police officer deaths in the line of duty have reached an 80-year low. "We're bringing the death penalty back for anybody that kills a police officer, by the way, or anybody in law enforcement," Trump said.
Border Patrol Union Chief: 'Never Had the Support'
Paul Perez, president of the National Border Patrol Council, praised Trump's leadership in remarks during the event. "I speak for all of us when we say we have never had the support or leadership from any administration that we have from you," Perez said. "And it's because of you that America is stronger, America is safer, and the border is totally secure."
Perez added, "This is going to be the greatest administration in the history of this country. Thank you for everything you do for us, sir."
Volunteer Firefighters Present Helmet
Steve Hirsch, chair of the National Volunteer Fire Council, presented Trump with a firefighting helmet on behalf of America's volunteer firefighters. "While this helmet protects us in a fire or a wreck, we want it to protect you," Hirsch said. "We want God to wrap his protective arm around you."
Trump responded lightly, "I could have used this in Butler," referring to the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, "this would have been very helpful. I wish he gave it to me a little bit earlier."
The president concluded by reiterating his commitment to those on the front lines. "As president I will always stand behind those who stand on the front lines of law enforcement, fighting fires, all of the things that you people do so courageously," Trump said.
