The Warner campaign announced today that it has received endorsements from a bi-artisan group of sheriffs from across Virginia who expressed their support for Warner's superb record in protecting the needs of the law enforcement community.
Standing before a group of over 20 sheriffs - Democrats, Republicans and Independents - at a press conference during the Virginia Sheriff's Association conference in Roanoke today, Governor Warner said:It's been an interesting journey in this campaign, but I can't think of a day that I'm prouder than today to have a number of sheriffs from across the state, of different party affiliations... publicly supporting my candidacy. ... Public safety is one of the core services of government. Lots of politicians talk about supporting public safety, but the way you're judged is not by your words but by your actions. These men and women put their lives on the line each and every day on behalf of Virginians. To have their public support today is a banner day for me and for the campaign."I am proud to be a Republican, and I also am honored to stand with Governor Warner and announce my support for his candidacy for the U.S. Senate," said Floyd County Sheriff Shannon Zeeman. "This election isn't about party affiliation: it's about picking the right person for the job. Mark Warner has demonstrated through his words and his actions that he is the best candidate to represent Virginians in the U.S. Senate."
The Virginia PBA, part of the Southern States Police Benevolent Association, Inc., is a professional association comprised of more than 20,000 law enforcement officers employed by federal, state, county and municipal governments. The PBA represents sworn law enforcement officers and support personnel by providing legal services and advocating changes to improve the quality of work life for people employed in all aspects of criminal justice.Warner continues to hold a wide lead in the polls over Republican opponent Jim "fiscal disaster" Gilmore. That having been said, I still find it slightly hilarious that even the Republican establishment has recognized Gilmore as one of the worst governors in U.S. history as evidenced by their total lack of support for his campaign."The Virginia Police Benevolent Association proudly endorses Governor Mark Warner for U.S. Senate," said Jason Knorowski, President of the Virginia Police Benevolent Association. "Through good times and bad, Governor Warner has always been a strong supporter of law enforcement professionals and their families, ensuring that we had the resources we needed to protect the public. We look forward to his continued support and leadership as he serves us in Washington in the U.S. Senate."
[h/t Vivian J. Paige]