WASHINGTON – Congressman Paul Mitchell (MI-10) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 7210, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.
“Since the unjust killing of George Floyd, our country has seen demonstrations and protests nationwide demanding Congress act to address instances of racial profiling and excessive force by law enforcement. This time presents an opportunity to make positive and overdue improvements to how we approach policing in this country, but unfortunately instead of seizing the moment to pass bipartisan police reform that creates real, lasting change my Democratic colleagues chose to bring a bill to the floor that was developed by one side of the aisle rather than as part of a collaborative effort.
It is disappointing that, yet again, Congress has fallen into our respective partisan camps. The American people are rightfully asking us for change, yet politics and party messaging has taken precedence over concrete reforms. I have made it clear that I support sensible police reforms that focus on fostering positive relationships between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve, and it is my hope that we can still find a will and a way to work together in developing bipartisan police reform legislation that can actually become law.”
Congressman Mitchell previously released a video on his thoughts about police reform, which you can view here.
Congressman Mitchell spoke on the floor during debate of H.R. 7210. To view his remarks, click here.
Submitted by Congressman Mitchell’s Office
