President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday, March 4, that he has signed an executive order imposing a “mandatory death penalty” for anyone convicted of murdering a police officer in the U.S. During his address to Congress, Trump emphasized the importance of stronger support for law enforcement and urged lawmakers to turn the executive order into permanent law.
“I’ve already signed an executive order requiring a mandatory death penalty for anyone who murders a police officer,” Trump stated. “And tonight, I’m asking Congress to pass that policy into permanent law.”
While the executive order does not automatically impose the death penalty, it directs the Attorney General to seek the death penalty in every federal capital case involving the murder of a law enforcement officer, where legally possible.
Trump’s remarks reflect his ongoing push for more aggressive policing measures, including his previous calls for providing greater protections and respect for officers, as well as immunity from prosecution in certain situations.