Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) recently appeared on Fox News Tonight to discuss the escalating crime problem in Washington, D.C., following D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson's concerning admission that "you can get away with murder in this city." Kennedy, who resides part-time in D.C., expressed his alarm at the deteriorating situation, comparing some streets to scenes from the post-apocalyptic film "Mad Max."

The senator attributed the surge in crime to the decision made by D.C. lawmakers three years prior to defund the police, cutting their budget by $15 million. He argued that this move stemmed from a misguided belief that law enforcement posed a greater threat than criminals. Kennedy emphasized the fundamental principle that justice cannot exist without order, and that order requires a robust police presence.

He went on to assert that a segment of the population engages in criminal behavior not due to societal failings or lack of parental love, but because they are inherently antisocial. These individuals, he explained, intentionally harm others and steal property, necessitating their separation from society. Kennedy argued that traditional rehabilitation methods like "hugging them and giving them hot cocoa" are ineffective in addressing this type of criminal behavior. He stressed the vital role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety.

Washington DC (Fox News Photo/Joshua Comins)

Acknowledging the existence of bad actors within law enforcement, Kennedy maintained that the vast majority of police officers are dedicated to upholding the law and protecting citizens. He stated that these officers typically do not interfere with individuals unless they are engaging in illegal activities.

Kennedy's comments underscore the ongoing debate surrounding policing and crime in major cities across the United States. His strong stance against defunding the police and his focus on the need for law and order reflect a perspective shared by many concerned about rising crime rates.