Ryan Nicol
The Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police (Florida FOP) is backing Jimmy Patronis in his bid to remain Florida’s Chief Financial Officer.
Patronis is running for election against Democrat Jeremy Ring, a former state senator. Richard Paul Dembinsky also qualified as a write-in candidate.
Patronis, a Republican, was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott last year to replace CFO Jeff Atwater, who stepped down early to become chief financial officer of Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.
Scott had previously tapped Patronis, a former state representative, for the state’s Public Service Commission and Constitution Revision Commission. He left both panels upon becoming CFO.
“The Florida State Fraternal Order of Police are proud to endorse and stand with Chief Financial Officer Patronis in his bid to continue as CFO,” said Florida FOP President Robert Jenkins.
“His dedication and passion for all of Florida’s first responders is truly remarkable. CFO Patronis consistently proves that he firmly stands with law enforcement and it is clear that we are a top priority for him.”
“CFO Jimmy Patronis has kept supporting Florida’s law enforcement and corrections at the top of his agenda,” added Florida FOP Vice President Lonnie Miller.
“He made such a profound impact for first responders with the passage of his PTSD bill this past legislative session. We are extremely pleased to be endorsing him.”
The Florida FOP is a union representing thousands of law enforcement officers throughout the state.
“I am extremely honored to be officially endorsed by the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police in my campaign,” said Patronis.
“I am appreciative of the service of the brave men and women who are sworn to protect Florida and uphold our laws. I will continue to advocate for all of Florida’s first responders, including law enforcement and corrections, to ensure they have the resources they need to continue successfully protecting communities all across this great state.”
The endorsement is another sign of good news for the Patronis campaign. Financial reports showed Patronis tripled Ring in fundraising during the month of June.
However, polls on the race have been split. The CFO election will take place Nov. 6, as voters head to the polls for the midterms.
