Republican U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee secured endorsements from the sheriffs of Hillsborough, Pasco, and Polk counties, citing her legal background and strong support for law enforcement as she campaigns for reelection.
Republican U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee on Tuesday secured endorsements from the sheriffs of Hillsborough, Pasco, and Polk counties as she seeks reelection in Florida’s 15th Congressional District.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd cited Lee’s background as a former judge and prosecutor, as well as her support for law enforcement and public safety during her time in Congress.
“Laurel has a proven track record of getting things done,” said Chronister. “From her work on human trafficking, like the REPORT Act that she introduced and was signed into law, and making the crisis at our nation’s southern border a top issue since becoming elected, Laurel has been working tirelessly for her district. This is the kind of person we want and need representing Hillsborough County in Congress, and I am proud to support her reelection.”
Nocco echoed the sentiment, praising Lee’s understanding of law enforcement’s role in maintaining public safety. He urged voters in Pasco County to reelect Lee, noting her consistent support for law and order.
“Laurel understands the rule of law and stands up for law and order in our communities,” he said. “She has always supported law enforcement, and I know her support will continue.”
Judd, meanwhile, said Lee has stood with police officers since her time as a judge and prosecutor and continues to be an ally for law enforcement in Washington.
“As a former judge and prosecutor, she has understood just how important law enforcement is for keeping our communities safe. She’s someone who has always stood with us, and it is because of that, that I am backing her reelection campaign,” Judd said.
Lee, whose district includes parts of western Polk County and Lakeland, won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022, obtaining 41.5 percent of the vote. Lee defeated former lawmakers Kelli Stargel and Jackie Toledo in the party primary, out-fundraising and outspending her opponents. Lee ultimately defeated journalist Alan Cohn to secure her place in Washington’s lower chamber.
In addition to the sheriffs, Lee has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, U.S. Senators. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, and state Attorney General Ashley Moody.