Anthony Christian Wied, U.S. Representative for Wisconsin 8th Congressional District | Official Website
Anthony Christian Wied, U.S. Representative for Wisconsin 8th Congressional District | Official Website
In response to recent riots in California, Congressman Tony Wied has introduced the SAFE Cities Act. This legislation aims to restrict federal funding from localities identified as "anarchist jurisdictions" by the Department of Justice. The bill seeks to formalize President Trump's previous memorandum on limiting federal funds for areas deemed to allow "anarchy, violence, or destruction."
"The United States is a nation of laws, and I refuse to stand by and allow violent criminals to wreak havoc in our communities," said Congressman Wied. He emphasized that if local leaders fail to protect their citizens from violent extremists, it becomes the federal government's responsibility to intervene.
The act comes after a series of violent protests in Los Angeles against federal immigration enforcement. These events escalated into riots, prompting President Trump to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops. Governor Gavin Newsom's legal action against this deployment has sparked further controversy.
The SAFE Cities Act aims to ensure that taxpayer money supports communities that maintain law and order. Original cosponsors include Representatives Tom Tiffany, Mike Collins, William Timmons, Chuck Edwards, Mike Haridopolos, Pat Harrigan, Troy Nehls, Rich McCormick, and John McGuire.
Congressman Tiffany remarked that taxpayers should not fund jurisdictions failing to protect citizens from lawlessness. Congressman Nehls criticized cities like Los Angeles for becoming havens for chaos under Democratic leadership.
"This is a strong, no-nonsense bill," said Congressman Harrigan. He highlighted the need for accountability among local leaders who prioritize appeasing radicals over citizen safety.
"As an original cosponsor of the SAFE Cities Act," said Congressman McCormick, "I stand firmly with Representative Tony Wied in our commitment to restoring law and order." He urged colleagues to support the legislation.
Congressman Haridopolos noted that when local authorities do not enforce the law and public safety is at risk, federal intervention is necessary. Similarly, Congressman Timmons stated that cities allowing violence should not receive federal funds.
Finally, Congressman Edwards emphasized the government's duty to protect its citizens and prevent anarchy. The SAFE Cities Act aims to hold all jurisdictions accountable for upholding their responsibilities toward public safety.