FOP won't endorse sheriff's candidate

President: "Many factors were considered"

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Fraternal Order of Police emailed its members Friday, announcing it would not endorse a candidate in the race for Jacksonville sheriff.

"Many factors, courses of actions, and the possible consequences were considered; including the impact and effect an endorsement might have on the membership, and the inherent value that the FOP's endorsements carry when given," the email from FOP President Steve Amos reads. "After much discussion and consideration on the issue, the board, in an 18-1 vote, voiced its decision to not make any further endorsement in the sheriff's race."

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The FOP previously endorsed Republican Jimmy Holderfield in the race.  The vice president of the FOP resigned over the endorsement along with ten other officers.

Holderfield finished third place in the first election and will not advance to the runoff.  

The race is now between first and second place finishers, Democrat Ken Jefferson and Republican Mike Williams.  Holderfield announced his support for Jefferson on Thursday.

Former candidates Jay Farhat and Lonnie McDonald announced their support for Williams on Thursday.

The election will be held on May 19th.