JD Vance Speaks at National Peace Officers Memorial Day Event
Vice President JD Vance addressed thousands of officers on the steps of the U.S. Capitol on Friday, noting that on-duty law enforcement deaths reached their lowest level in 80 years in 2025. The speech coincided with National Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week.
Washington ExaminerU.S. Capitol. The event marked National Peace Officers Memorial Day, a tradition started by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, and coincided with National Police Week. Vance stated that on-duty law enforcement deaths in the United States reached their lowest level in 80 years in 2025.
Washington Examiner reported that Vance underscored the Trump administration’s record of supporting law enforcement during the address. “The Department of Justice is aggressively seeking the death penalty for anybody who dares to kill a law enforcement officer in the United States of America,” Vance said.
He added that the Trump administration is taking care of all law enforcement officers left behind when their loved one pays the ultimate sacrifice.
In 2024, Trump and Vance campaigned on a law-and-order message against former Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN). The vice president’s Friday remarks built on that platform as he spoke at the National Fraternal Order of Police event.
Vance’s address came as the nation observes the annual memorial events honoring fallen officers. The gathering on the Capitol steps drew law enforcement representatives from across the country for the dual observances of National Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- 2026-05-15
Vice President JD Vance delivers address at Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on the steps of the U.S. Capitol
1 sourceWashington Examiner - 2025
On-duty law enforcement deaths reach lowest level in 80 years
1 sourceJD Vance via Washington Examiner - 1962
President John F. Kennedy establishes National Peace Officers Memorial Day
1 sourceWashington Examiner - 2024
Trump and Vance campaign on law-and-order message against Kamala Harris and Tim Walz
1 sourceWashington Examiner
Potential Impact
- 01
Signals continued federal support for families of fallen officers through administrative initiatives
- 02
May influence congressional debate on criminal justice and policing legislation
Transparency Panel
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