A.G. Gancarski
Mike Williams continued Saturday to stack up meaningful endorsements in the Jacksonville Sheriff’s race as U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis announced his support.
“Mike has demonstrated strong leadership while working closely with law enforcement agencies and sheriffs throughout the northeast and north central region of Florida. He understands counterterrorism and homeland security, and is committed to keeping the people safe. Jacksonville will be fortunate to have someone with Mike’s experience at the helm as its sheriff,” DeSantis said in his prepared statement.
One of the main points Duval Republicans make in their endorsements of Williams regards his leadership and administrative experience. It’s what Duval GOP Chairman Robin Lumb calls the “stark” choice between Williams and his Democratic opponent, Ken Jefferson.
The Saturday press release reiterates that claim:
In his 23 years working at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Williams served on both the Bomb and SWAT units, leading the agency in successfully garnering federal grant dollars and expanding the advanced training of personnel. He retired as the appointed director of Patrol and Enforcement for the agency of 1,600 sworn police officers, most of which Williams managed during his career as he work his way up through the ranks.
DeSantis, chairman of the Congressional Oversight Committee’s National Security subcommittee, is a rising star in the national GOP in his second term.
“I am honored to receive this endorsement from Congressman Ron DeSantis. He is a true patriot, still serving in the Navy Reserves and serving in the United States Congress. He is safeguarding the rights of all citizens in his role as vice-chairman of the Judiciary Committee’s Constitution and Civil Justice subcommittee. I’m proud that he recognizes that my law enforcement experience, military service, and leadership best qualifies me to lead the JSO into the future,” Williams said
Williams has also been endorsed by several area sheriffs, two former opponents in the sheriff’s race, and the business lobby of the Chamber of Commerce JAXBIZ. The one endorsement that he did not get, that of Jimmy Holderfield, who finished third in the race, has caused the Duval GOP great consternation in the past few days.
