Gov: Strickland (D) Endorsed by Fraternal Order of Police

The campaign of Rep. Ted Strickland (D-Lisbon) announced today that he has been unanimously endorsed by the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police. The FOP is Ohio’s largest law enforcement organization, representing more than 24,000 officers and their families at the local, county, state and federal level.

Nick DiMarco, president of he FOP, commented on the endorsement:

Congressman Ted Strickland has a long relationship with us and has consistently supported law enforcement. Ted is an honest and decent man. Not only is he what law enforcement in Ohio needs, we believe he’s what the state of Ohio needs, and we unanimously endorse him.

Accepting the endorsement, Strickland said:

Ohio’s law enforcement officers serve with bravery and distinction every day, and I’m honored to receive their support. Together, we will continue the work to ensure our communities are safe and that justice is provided for all Ohioans.

Law enforcement endorsements are always a good thing, and this one is big. Also, I just have to say, with Republicans continuing to spread falsehoods about Strickland (accusing him of supporting gay marriage when he opposes it, claiming he doesn't attend church when he does, arguing that he doesn't really support gun rights when his record of supporting them is clear, even making insinuations about Strickland's marriage), I just like hearing an affirmation once again that Strickland is "an honest and decent man." A very sharp contrast to the slanderers on the other side.

UPDATE: The Cleveland Plain Dealer "blog" Openers says this is the first time in over ten years that the FOP has turned away from the Republican gubernatorial candidate.