Republicans are running campaign ads trying to incite fears that if Democrats are elected, police departments will be shut down and 911 call centers will put callers on hold while burglars break into their homes.

Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, Democratic candidates, starting with Joe Biden, have made it clear that, regardless of what some protestors might chant, they will not defund police departments or curtail 911 call capabilities.

What they are looking at doing is relieving police of some responsibilities the police would prefer not to have, so that they can concentrate on public safety and stopping crime. Some Democrats have even suggested increasing police funding to do this, and to improve the quality of training.

Nationwide, discussions of police reform are making progress in restricting chokeholds and strangleholds, pursuing de-escalation, and requiring officers to intervene if a fellow officer uses excessive force. These are positive steps — not just for minorities, but for all of us — not just because black lives matter, but because all lives matter.

In serving as an Air Force lawyer (JAG), I advised commanders and set up training for military police on proper use of force. Our civilian police should be no less professional and accountable.

President Trump has said he opposes any restrictions on policing, while Democrats seek to improve public safety by eliminating dangerous and improper practices.

Ignore the fearmongering. Vote Democrat on Nov 3.

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