A leading national speaker on police issues will give a talk about the state of law enforcement in the United States on April 5 in Kalispell.

Local conservative groups Stand Up America and Glacial Forum will host David Clarke Jr. at the Hilton Garden Inn.

 Clarke is serving his fourth consecutive term as sheriff of Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, and is host of a weekly podcast on Glenn Beck’s The Blaze Radio network.

“He’s a national celebrity,” Stand Up America Founder and Retired Maj. Gen. Paul Vallely said. “He’s on television all the time talking about civil unrest in the country and all of the anti-police things that have been going on in the country.”

Clarke has served more than 37 years in law enforcement. During his time working in the homicide department in the Milwaukee Police Department, the department made arrests in 80 percent of homicide cases, compared to the national average of 60 percent.

He is known for his sharp criticism of President Obama and former Attorney General Eric Holder, whom he claims have not shown due support for men and women in uniform.

The targets of his commentary have been on both sides of the political aisle. When a video of Republican presidential candidate and Ohio Gov. John Kasich surfaced earlier this month of the candidate having negative interactions with an officer, Clarke blasted him on Twitter.

“This rat b------ @JohnKasich lied about this cop’s treatment of him as a lack of respect. Called the cop an idiot,” Clarke tweeted March 18.

Clarke has appeared on many national television networks to talk about domestic security, including an appearance on Fox News on Saturday in which he talked about his concerns about immigration issues.

Event coordinator Dee Boon said that people from as far away as Wyoming and Washington have ordered tickets for Clarke’s visit to Kalispell.

“We’re just so fortunate to have someone of this caliber,” Boon said. “He is very well respected in his field.”

Boone believes Clarke’s message about bringing unity to the country is what has attracted so many people to the event.

“He is bringing a message of truth and honesty,” Boon said.

Around 250 people have claimed tickets for the talk, which can accommodate up to 500 people. Tickets are $30 each or two for $50.

“I would encourage those who want to attend to make reservations,” Boon said.

It would not be surprising if the event sold out, Boon said. Glacial Forum has drawn large crowds in the past.

“I just think everyone one here is excited to have these people we see on our television and hear on our radios share their message in Flathead Valley,” Boon said.

Boon is accepting ticket inquires at 250-5098 or [email protected]. The event kicks off at 6:30 p.m. April 5.

Reporter Megan Strickland can be reached at 758-4459 or [email protected].