# Safety After the Election: Trump vs. Biden
*2020-10-18*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke discuss how the upcoming election could affect safety in the United States, comparing the candidates' platforms on law enforcement, criminal justice, the military, and related issues.

## Opening Prayer

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Lord, thank you for hearing my prayer. There are things happening around me that I do not understand; they make me feel weak, helpless, and afraid. Yet I trust that you are in control. Grant me strength and wisdom to endure these circumstances and to act in a way that glorifies your name. Amen.

## Law Enforcement

We examined the candidates' proposals for policing. Biden’s platform calls for decreasing police funding, increasing diversity, limiting qualified immunity, and restricting the transfer of surplus military weapons to local departments. John warned that cutting funding and removing qualified immunity could leave police unable to protect communities, potentially leading to anarchy. Both candidates agree on the need for fully funded police, but their approaches differ sharply on how to achieve public safety.

## Criminal Justice Reform

Biden’s plan includes a $20 billion grant to shift from incarceration to prevention, ending mandatory minimums, de‑criminalizing cannabis with automatic expungement, ending the death penalty, and eliminating cash bail and private prisons. John expressed concern that these measures could undermine public safety, especially if they lead to the release of dangerous offenders. In contrast, Trump’s record includes signing the First Step Act, supporting the death penalty for the most serious crimes, and cracking down on child sex trafficking. Both agree on the need to protect children, but differ on how to balance reform with security.

## Military and National Defense

Biden proposes sufficient military funding with an overall reduction in defense spending, while Trump emphasizes a strong, modernized force, the creation of a Space Force, and robust veteran care. John highlighted Trump’s actions in Afghanistan, the defeat of ISIS, and the killing of a senior Iranian general as examples of decisive leadership. He argued that a strong military is essential for protecting the nation and its allies.

## Final Thoughts

The hosts concluded that safety is a matter of national priority, not partisan loyalty. Regardless of personal feelings toward either candidate, the goal is to ensure a secure future for our families and grandchildren. They urged listeners to pray for wisdom and discernment as the election approaches.

*Choosing leaders who prioritize a strong, well‑funded police force, responsible criminal‑justice policies, and a robust military is essential for the safety of our nation.*