FLINT -- Flint firefighters and police officers stood in the downtown Flint fire department waiting to plead their case to the Vice President of the United States on Wednesday.
"The men and women I stand along side daily proudly serve the city of Flint. We are hoping for some relief,” said Officer Tyrone Booth.
Vice President Joe Biden said he has the answer with the American Jobs Act, a bill he said will put more Flint fire fighters and police back on the job to protect our streets.
"If anyone doubts there’s a direct correlation between the reduction of cops and firefighters and the rise in the concern of public safety they need to look no further than your city Mr. Mayor," said Vice President Joe Biden.
In 2008 there were 265 police officers and that year the city had 35 murders and 91 rapes. In 2010 there were fewer officers and more crimes. With 144 officers, there were 65 murders and more than 200 rapes.
"God only knows what the numbers will be this year in Flint if we don't rectify. God only knows what that number would have been if we were able to get a little bit of help to you,” said Vice President Biden.
Obama’s 450 billion dollar jobs plan would reduce payroll taxes on workers and employers, extend benefits to long term unemployed people and help states keep teachers and first responders on the job, but when that bill will pass congress is uncertain.
"Mr. Vice President the city of Flint police and fire fighters are delighted to have a president and vice president who believes in the simple idea that every American and city like ours who works hard and plays by the rules has a fundamental right to economic security,” said Officer Booth proudly.
The Vice-President’s motorcade stopped traffic on I-69 in both directions for a short time Wednesday morning.
After the speech, the motorcade returned to Flint Bishop International Airport, where Biden departed aboard Air Force 2 around 1 p.m.
