The Big Bend chapter of the Florida PBA is endorsing Loranne Ausley for Tallahassee mayor and Talethia Edwards for City Commission Seat 3.
The police union, which represents more than 500 law enforcement officers, announced its endorsements in an April 27 news release.
Ausley, a former state senator and House member, is one of four candidates running for mayor. Edwards, a community advocate, is among seven candidates competing for Seat 3.
The PBA said that as a lawmaker, Ausley “always championed the issues that matter most to our officers and their families.”
“She has consistently defended the rights of law enforcement officers and advocated for more funding to keep police officers safe, while they are on patrol, protecting our communities,” the union said.
The PBA said it was “equally proud” to endorse Edwards.
“She will bring both a fresh voice to the City Commission and partner with us to advocate for law enforcement and enhance public safety,” the union said.
The PBA announced its endorsement March 30 of Williams-Cox, who’s facing three challengers in her re-election bid.
“With a track record of advocating for public safety and ensuring our members have the resources they need, Commissioner Williams-Cox has proven she will continue to stand with those who keep our community safe every day!” the PBA said.
In recent cycles, the PBA has backed incumbents who make up the City Commission’s ruling majority, namely Mayor John Dailey and City Commissioners Curtis Richardson and Dianne Williams-Cox, as well as candidates who have tried to unseat Commissioners Jeremy Matlow and Jack Porter, who make up the minority.
Dailey, who’s not seeking re-election, backs Edwards for Seat 3, which was left open by Matlow’s move to the mayor’s race. He gave her a $1,000 check in January, according to campaign finance reports.
Contact Jeff Burlew at jburlew@tallahassee.com or 850-599-2180.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: PBA endorses Ausley for mayor; Edwards, Williams-Cox for city commission
Reporting by Jeff Burlew, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
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