Nashville Standard

The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) announced its endorsement of Donald J. Trump for president of the United States. The endorsement reflects the votes of FOP members, who participated through their 46 State Lodges in the decision-making process.

The FOP requires that a presidential candidate receive support from two-thirds of the State Lodges to earn their endorsement. Former President Trump surpassed this threshold in the 2024 election. According to a press release by the FOP, the organization reviewed the records of both candidates, considering responses from Trump to their questionnaire and a letter from the Harris-Walz campaign on criminal justice and police labor issues. While an FOP committee met with Trump, no meeting was arranged with the Harris-Walz team.

"Public safety and border security will be important issues in the last months of this campaign," said Patrick Yoes, National President of FOP. "Our members carefully considered the positions of the candidates on the issues and there was no doubt—zero doubt—as to who they want as our President for the next four years: Donald J. Trump."

This information was shared with FOP members to help them make their decision. Each election cycle, according to a press release by the FOP, assesses which candidate prioritizes law enforcement concerns, including public safety and criminal justice issues.

In the past, the FOP has endorsed candidates—from both parties—that members believe have made the men and women of law enforcement a priority: George H. W. Bush (1992); William J. Clinton (1996); George W. Bush (2000, 2004); John S. McCain III (2008); Donald J. Trump (2016, 2020). In 2012, the FOP voted not to endorse a candidate. 

The FOP is an organization representing over 373,000 law enforcement officers in more than 2,200 lodges. Its mission focuses on advocating for the rights and working conditions of officers while promoting public safety through education, legislation, and community involvement. The organization aims to uphold the Constitution, improve law enforcement practices, and foster a sense of solidarity among its members, working to enhance both their professional skills and public trust in the police force.