From Boca Raton to the Treasure Coast, several police chiefs in our area traveled up the turnpike to Orlando Monday for an international convention, and to listen to President Donald Trump.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd, President Trump spoke in front of police chiefs from all across the world.
“On behalf of all Americans, I want to express our eternal gratitude for what you do every single day to protect our families,” said the President, who touted his administration's effort to restore law and order across the country.
The President landed in Orlando Monday afternoon and spoke at the annual International Association of Chiefs of Police at the Orange County Convention Center.
“My administration will always honor, cherish and support the men and women in blue, and we are proud to do it,” Trump said.
But nearly 1,000 miles from our nation's capital, politics was still front and center. President Trump gave praise for newly appointed Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh after a contentious confirmation battle.
“He’s a great person and it was very unfair what happened to him ... false charges, false accusations,” he said. "It was a disgraceful situation brought about by people that are evil, but he toughed it out," Trump said.
Gov. Rick Scott was also at the convention in an official capacity to recognize law enforcement, but his main focus right now is Hurricane Michael as it barrels towards the Florida panhandle. Scott and Trump both encouraged Floridians to prepare and heed the warnings.
“Today I spoke with him about this hurricane and he has promised all the resources from the federal government to take care of us,” Scott said.
It was a short trip for the President and his first time to Orlando since March 2017. After leaving the convention center, the president flew back to Washington for the swearing-in ceremony for Kavanaugh at the White House.