A candidate can only get the Working Families Party endorsement and appear on its ballot line if they agree with a Working Families Party platform. The Working Families party platform includes a commitment to defunding and abolishing police, raising the age of criminal culpability, cashless bail to diminish the incarceration of dangerous criminals, and prioritizing criminals over victim’s rights.
I don’t know about you, but I find this very troubling. We only have to look at cities where these policies have been implemented to see the chaos and misery occurring as public safety is cast to the wind. Crime is up in every category, and criminals return to the street before the police officer can finish their arrest paperwork.
Disingenuous politicians will tell you how they supported their local police and filled vacancies while championing programs to reimagine enforcement and diminish funding for training.
Salary and benefits are essential to maintaining existing rank and file. But the real money is in training to ensure that today’s police officers can address the complex demands of our communities.
I was the Police Benevolent Association president of New York State’s fifth-biggest police union. I’ve been involved for over two decades, supporting and advocating for the needs and resources of police officers throughout New York State. I’ve dealt with complex state budgets, authored complex legislation, and led my PBA through collective bargaining with every governor, from George Pataki to Kathy Hochul.
I know a red herring when I see one. I can instantly sniff out disingenuous politicians professing support for our police while subversively supporting defunding your local police force by redirecting valuable resources away.
This election, do not be fooled by politicians who supported the defund the police movement. They will be easy to find, because they accepted the Working Families Party endorsement.
As your Suffolk County legislator, I will always prioritize your safety, family and communities. I will represent you in the County Legislature with the same drive and vigor as I did as PBA president, representing my police officers for over two decades.
If you have any questions or concerns, I value your opinions. Please call or text me at 631-324-0528, or by email at info@vilarforsuffolk.com.
On Election Day, November 7, please vote for me, Manny Vilar, for the Suffolk County Legislature. I am humbled and honored to have your support.
Manny Vilar
Springs
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