President Donald Trump recently met with representatives of two law enforcement associations, repeating his campaign promises to crack down on illegal immigration and support police in their efforts to reduce crime.

Trump held a roundtable meeting with representatives of the National Sheriffs Association at the White House Tuesday. He spoke at the winter meeting of the Major Cities Chiefs Association in Washington, D.C., Wednesday. Illegal immigration was a major focus in both events, and at the Tuesday meeting the sheriffs association handed the president a letter supporting his border security efforts.

"America's sheriffs are at the tip of the spear in dealing with border security and are greatly encouraged that much needed solutions to solve illegal immigration challenges are at the top of the agenda," the association said in a statement.

Still, Trump's tough stance on illegal immigration has divided law enforcement much like it has divided the nation. The police chiefs association issued a joined statement with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in January expressing concern about Trump's executive order to punish "sanctuary cities" and other local governments that don't comply with federal authorities in enforcing immigration law.

"Cities that aim to build trusting and supportive relations with immigrant communities should not be punished because this is essential to reducing crime and helping victims, both stated goals of the new administration in Washington," the groups said. "We must be able to continue to protect the safety of all of our residents while ensuring that local law enforcement is focused on community policing."

Trump also has promised to "get tough on crime" by supporting law enforcement. However, at the sheriffs association meeting, the president claimed the U.S. murder rate was at its highest level in 47 years when, in fact, the rate is near a historic low, the Washington Post reported. http://wapo.st/2k37ghq

MORE CEO DATELINE

• Science groups debate whether to support upcoming protest
• Cleaning industry association defends detergent pod safety
• Super Bowl spot kicks off new API campaign
• Internet Association opens New York State office
• Business coalitions to duel over Border Adjustment Tax