The Byron Donalds for Governor campaign announced today that the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) has officially endorsed the congressman in his bid for the state’s highest office. The FPCA represents more than 1,300 law enforcement executives and members across the state.
According to campaign officials, the endorsement builds on an existing coalition of law enforcement figures backing Donalds, which now includes a majority of Florida’s sheriffs.
Association leaders cited Donalds’ legislative record and communication with local agencies as primary factors for the endorsement.
“On behalf of the Florida Police Chiefs Association, we are honored to endorse Congressman Byron Donalds for Governor of Florida. His strong commitment to public safety, defending the rule of law, and unwavering support for law enforcement make him the clear choice to continue Florida’s success as a law-and-order state,” Robert Bage, Immediate Past President of the FPCA, said.
FPCA President David Currey emphasized the operational needs of local departments, pointing to Donalds’ previous work. “Congressman Donalds has consistently demonstrated his dedication to those who serve on the front lines,” Currey said. “Through his work in Congress and his engagement with law enforcement leaders across the state, he has shown he will provide our agencies with the resources, pay, and protections needed to recruit and retain the most capable, professional officers.”
John Barkley, the association’s Second Vice President, pointed to broader safety goals as a core reason for the group’s decision. “Protecting our communities from crime, securing our borders, and supporting the men and women in blue are non-negotiable priorities,” Barkley said. “Congressman Donalds understands that Florida’s progress depends on safe streets and strong law enforcement partnerships, and we look forward to working with him to keep Florida the safest state in the nation.”
Donalds accepted the endorsement and reiterated his campaign’s policy goals regarding public safety funding and support.
“I am honored to earn the endorsement of the Florida Police Chiefs Association,” Congressman Donalds said. “Every day, Florida’s law enforcement officers put on the badge and risk their lives to protect our families and our communities. As Governor, I will always stand with those who serve, ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs safely and effectively, and continue building on Florida’s reputation as the safest and most law-and-order state in America.”
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