Another Sheriff is backing Lt. Gov. Jay Collins in his run to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis.
“I have had the privilege of working alongside many dedicated public servants across our state,” said Osceola Sheriff Christopher Blackmon.
“Leadership matters — especially in times that require courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people we serve. That is why I am proud to offer my full support and endorsement to Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins as he runs to become the next Governor of Florida,” Blackmon added.
Blackmon is the Second sheriff to endorse Collins this month. Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, a registered independent that usually endorses Republicans, backed the LG earlier in March.
“I am humbled to have the support of Osceola County Sheriff Christopher Blackmon,” Collins said. “I don’t take this endorsement lightly. Florida must continue to be a strong law and order state. Anything less than that is unacceptable. Under my leadership, we’ll continue deporting illegal aliens, fighting against drug trafficking, and we will always back the blue.”
Like Collins, Blackmon was appointed by DeSantis to his role. Former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos López was removed from office last year after López was arrested and charged with racketeering over a $22 million illegal gambling operation, leading to Blackmon to leave his role as the Central Region Chief for the Florida Highway Patrol for the opening.
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds has been endorsed by 36 Sheriffs so far, but the recent news suggests at least some of the others may be open to persuasion to back another candidate.
