The New Jersey Police Benevolent Association (PBA) – which represents over 30,000 police officers and is the largest police organization in the state – today endorsed Rep. Chris Smith for reelection.
In endorsing Smith, NJ PBA President Pat Colligan said there was no disputing that Smith “[ has ] been a champion and a defender of the law enforcement community in New Jersey… You have never wavered in your dedication to our members, in good times and in bad.”
Colligan further stated: “We are grateful not only for how you vote but for your integrity and your passion for public service. Our more than 30,000 members know that any time we have reached out for help you have always delivered.”
Smith has long stood firm in his support of law enforcement, especially amid increasing attacks on the profession. Particularly notable in his extensive record is his “no” vote to abolishing qualified immunity – a legal doctrine which protects police officers and other civil servants from being personally sued for their actions on the job.
He has also supported numerous bills, such as the Protect and Serve Act, which strengthens federal penalties for targeting and harming police officers, and the Public Safety Enhancement Act, which would provide grant funding to hire an additional 100,000 officers over five years.
“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey PBA – an organization which protects the rights of police officers throughout the state,” said Smith. “As attacks against police increase, and as crime continues to rise, we must all double down on our support of the brave men and women who keep our communities safe. I look forward to continuing to work with President Colligan and the PBA in the next Congress to pass policies that protect and defend the men and women in blue.”
The NJ PBA joins the New Jersey State Troopers Fraternal Association in recognizing Smith’s record of supporting law enforcement . Both have endorsed him prior to his June 7 primary election.