Congressman Sires’ Statement on President Trump’s Pardon of Joe Arpaio

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congressman Sires issued the following statement on President Trump’s decision to pardon former Sheriff Joe Arpaio who was convicted of criminal contempt of court:

“Last night, President Trump once again proved he is willing to give a rubber stamp of approval to racism and bigotry when he pardoned Joe Arpaio. Arpaio repeatedly targeted, tormented, and harassed Latinos based on their race, routinely violating the 4th Amendment. By ignoring the court’s ruling and abusing his power to pardon one of his early supporters, the President has shown a complete disrespect for the rule of law and elevated a man who sought to sow fear and distrust across the country.  

Rather than working to unite the nation, this action follows in the President’s pattern of divisiveness and goes against the core values of our nation. I condemn his actions and will continue to stand against racism, bigotry, and hatred in all its forms.“