The Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) announced its endorsement of Congressman and Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds (R-FL) for governor by praising his commitment to public safety.
"On behalf of the Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police and the more than 24,000 law enforcement officers and families we represent across the State of Florida, we are proud to formally endorse Byron Donalds for Governor of Florida," Florida State Lodge FOP President Jeff Stinson said in a statement.
"Florida's continued growth brings increasing challengers for law enforcement, first responders, and the communities we serve. Our next governor must make public safety a priority by recruiting and retaining highly qualified professionals, and protecting the retirement and health benefits they have earned, supporting those injured in the line of duty, and ensuring those who violently attack our first responders are held accountable," Stinson continued.
The Florida FOP was founded in 1953 and is the third-largest state lodge in the nation.
"Byron Donalds understands that supporting first responders requires more than words - it requires strong leadership, meaningful protections, competitive benefits, adequate resources, and a willingness to listen to those serving on the front lines. These priorities we believe Bryon Donalds can deliver for Florida," Stinson said. "The Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police proudly endorses Byron Donalds for Governor and looks forward to working alongside him to keep Florida safe, strong, and a national leader in supporting the men and women who protect our communities."
The Florida FOP's endorsement follows support from the Florida Police Chiefs Association for Rep. Donalds in his gubernatorial bid in July.
Rep. Donalds has also been endorsed by a majority of Florida sheriffs, including an additional 17 in August. Moreover, Donalds was by the Florida Professional Firefighters that same month.
Donalds is competing against Democratic candidate David Jolly for governor.
The general election is Nov. 3.
