Key Findings
- Centralization of power in the executive branch, particularly the President, to direct law enforcement actions and resource allocation.
- Use of national security assets and military resources to assist local law enforcement, potentially blurring the lines between law enforcement and national security.
- Emphasis on suppressing dissent and prioritizing law enforcement over civil liberties, particularly concerning 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' initiatives.
- Direct intervention in state and local law enforcement matters through executive orders and the threat of rescinding federal funding.
- Broad definition of 'dangerous criminal behavior' and a lack of specific limitations on its application.
Most Concerning Aspect
The potential for the executive branch to overstep its constitutional authority and exert undue influence over state and local law enforcement, potentially leading to the suppression of dissent and erosion of civil liberties.
Evidence
"Section 1: 'My Administration will work to ensure that law enforcement officers across America focus on ending crime, not pursuing harmful, illegal race- and sex-based ‘‘equity’’ policies.' This demonstrates a clear prioritization of crime over civil rights and a potential targeting of DEI initiatives."
"Section 4: 'increase the provision of excess military and national security assets in local jurisdictions to assist State and local law enforcement.' This indicates a willingness to utilize national security resources for law enforcement, potentially expanding its scope and impact."
"Section 5: 'willfully and unlawfully direct the obstruction of criminal law, including by directly and unlawfully prohibiting law enforcement officers from carrying out duties necessary for public safety and law enforcement.' This suggests a potential for the executive branch to punish officials who challenge its directives."