The United States is currently grappling with a surge in retail thefts, costing businesses billions. In a recent speech to Republicans in California, former President Donald Trump offered a controversial solution to the problem.
"We can immediately stop all the looting and theft. Very simply: If you rob a store, you can fully expect to be shot when you leave the store," Trump declared.
According to The Guardian, this blunt rhetoric is part of Trump's political mantra of cracking down hard on crime. The idea of using lethal force is not new for the former president, who has previously suggested shooting migrants to deter them from entering the U.S.
Retailers like Foot Locker, pharmacy chains, and hardware stores have reported increasing issues with theft. Target, a supermarket chain, has seen a 120% increase in thefts involving violence or threats of violence over the past five months.
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper has previously revealed that Trump inquired about the possibility of shooting protesters in connection with the arrest of George Floyd, who died in police custody.
The statement has sparked debate, with some seeing it as an extreme measure that could lead to unnecessary loss of life.
What do you think? Is Trump's suggestion over the line, or is it a valid approach to a growing problem? Would such a policy deter theft, or would it escalate the situation further?
