Thank you Texas! If you haven’t registered to VOTE- today is your last day. Go to: https://t.co/HfihPEA3Sp & get out on 11/8/16 to #MAGA! pic.twitter.com/KlRx4GoO64
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 11, 2016
Members of the San Antonio Police Department face disciplinary action after a visit from Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump.
In a video posted by Donald Trump’s twitter account, several members of the Police Department are seen wearing Trump’s signature “Make America Safe & Great Again” and posing for picture with the nominee. Law enforcement officials are free to support and vote for whomever they choose but City policy prohibits employees from participating in political activity while on duty.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus issued the following statement:
“The officers wearing the campaign hats while in uniform violated SAPD policy and will be disciplined appropriately. SAPD officers are charged with protecting the entire community. The officers displayed poor judgment. I expect them to know better than to give the appearance of endorsing a candidate while on duty and in uniform, regardless of the political campaign or the candidate.”
Mayor Ivy Taylor added the following on her FB Page:
“I am deeply disappointed by some of our SAPD officers’ lack of judgement. While on duty, police must be above politics with an obligation to serve everyone equally. Everything they do should send that message and today’s actions did not.”
Michael Helle, president of the San Antonio Police Officers Association had the following statement:
“At the conclusion of Mr. Trump’s visit to San Antonio, several police officers conducting escort duty were photographed wearing campaign hats at the airport. SAPOA historically does not make federal political endorsements. Dignitaries and celebrities often visit San Antonio and treat our police officers with great kindness, respect, and courtesy. Frankly, the officers were most likely caught up in the moment and did not consider the political nature of their actions.”
No word on what disciplinary actions the officers will face. Likely an unpaid vacation. More time for them to attend Trump rallies.