Fauquier County Sheriff Bob Mosier: “The rise in gang activity, and MS-13 specifically, in the Commonwealth of Virginia is a legitimate public safety issue. I applaud Ed Gillespie for bringing attention to it throughout his campaign and for his substantive plan to address it. He is the only candidate in the race to outline a public safety proposal.”
Gloucester County Sheriff Darrell W. Warren Jr.: “Ed has made it explicitly clear he will work with federal immigration officials to deport dangerous criminals, and he will do so because he supports safer communities for ALL Virginians. Gangs like MS-13 pose a threat to public safety, particularly in immigrant communities. A serious commitment to public safety must include a commitment to eradicating violent street gangs.“
Winchester City Sheriff Les Taylor: “It is crystal clear to me that Ed Gillespie opposes the creation of sanctuary cities because he is deeply committed to keeping our communities safe. Virginia needs a leader who will make public safety a top priority, and that’s exactly what Ed will deliver. The choice, and the contrast, could not be more clear.”
Lolita Mancheno-Smoak: “Immigrant communities are especially vulnerable to the violence of the MS-13 and other gangs. Ed Gillespie understands this, and he has released a proactive plan that will fight these gangs and protect you, your family, and all Virginians. The fact is, he is the only candidate for governor who has demonstrated a commitment to keeping our communities safe.”
Genaro Pedroarias: “Gangs like MS-13 prey on the vulnerable, and that often includes immigrants who have just arrived in America. To equate sanctuary cities and legal immigration is to insult those immigrants who followed the rule of law and came to America for the opportunity it promises. The Washington Post should be ashamed of its flawed premise of its recent story attacking Ed Gillespie, and it should turn its focus to this serious public safety issue that it identified as experiencing a resurgence. I’m still waiting to see the Lieutenant Governor’s plan to improve public safety.”
Danny Vargas: “I want my governor to stand up for the rule of law and protect all of our communities, including the immigrant community. I know Ed will, because he understands that providing for public safety is an essential responsibility of government, and his commitment to public service will not be swayed.”
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