Governor Ron DeSantis continues to draw support from the men and women in blue, with the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) being the latest law enforcement group to back the Republican’s re-election bid.

FPCA, the third-largest state police chiefs association in the United States, FPCA announced the endorsement at a press conference on Wednesday, touting the governor’s strong commitment to Florida’s law enforcement.

“On behalf of the Florida Police Chiefs Association, we are honored to stand here today with Governor DeSantis,” said FPCA president and Daytona Beach Shores Public Safety Department Director Stephan Dembinsky. “From his commitment to safe communities and defending the rule of law, to his concern for officer wellness, to his unwavering support for the profession of law enforcement through better pay and bonuses to help agencies recruit and retain the most capable, professional officers, Governor DeSantis has always had our back, and now we have his.”

The law enforcement association is composed of more than 900 of the state’s top law enforcement executives. The group also serves municipal police departments, airport police, college and university police, tribal police, airport police, railroad and port authority police, private business and security firms, as well as federal, state and county law enforcement agencies.

Since taking office, DeSantis has been an ardent supporter of those serving on the frontlines to keep Floridians safe. As part of his plan to recruit and retain law enforcement officers, DeSantis recently proposed $5,000 signing bonuses for new recruits. The bonuses will provide a one-time $5,000 payment to sworn law enforcement officers who are new to the profession in Florida.

DeSantis also doubled down on his commitment to Florida’s finest during his State of the State address, urging the legislature to re-up bonuses for police, fire and EMTs, while also increasing officer pay and boosting bonuses for those who protect Florida.

Flanked by police officers and FPCA members at the early morning conference, DeSantis thanked FPCA for their endorsement and touted their role in safeguarding Floridians and communities statewide.

“Protecting the safety and wellbeing of Floridians is essential and would not be possible without the courage and bravery of our law enforcement officers,” added DeSantis. “Florida’s police chiefs consistently answer the call of upholding law and order in our state. I am deeply appreciative of the work our men and women in Blue do to keep our families and communities safe.”

Today’s endorsement from the FPCA is the second law enforcement endorsement for Governor DeSantis this week. On Monday, 59 sheriffs from across Florida signed a letter endorsing the governor for re-election. DeSantis also has the support of the Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA), which was the first in line to back his re-election campaign.

“The Florida Police Chiefs Association is proud to support an extraordinary public servant like Governor DeSantis, and we look forward to continuing our work with him on behalf of the people of Florida,” Dembinsky added.

It’s an honor to receive the endorsement from the Florida Police Chief’s Association.

Florida’s police chiefs consistently answer the call of upholding law and order in our state. Thank you for your service to the people of Florida and for your support. pic.twitter.com/vV94zTUIrm

— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) January 26, 2022