JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In the run-up to the May 19 election for Jacksonville's next sheriff, candidates who didn't make the cut have begun putting their weight behind the two men still contending for the spot.
Thursday night, candidates Lonnie McDonald and Jay Farhat came forward, putting their weight behind Republican Mike Williams.
"It's with my honor and pleasure to endorse Mike, and I urge and encourage all my supporters to also endorse Mike in any way that they can. (He) shares my core values of integrity and character," Farhat said.
"The field was crowded but I think that Jay distinguished himself to the voters as a professional who was dedicated to the JSO and its mission of excellence. I am honored to be receiving his endorsement today," Williams said.
"My endorsement of Mike was based on several things, (including) our core belief that as police professionals, our integrity, our character and our commitment to public service is critically important," Farhat said.
Farhat is the second candidate to come forward in support of Williams after Lonnie McDonald came forward to endorse him March 25.
"Mike Williams has that experience -- proven leadership experience -- to bring it back, and he has experience to make the city safe," McDonald said.
Early Thursday morning, Jimmy Holderfield, the close third place contender for sheriff from the unitary election, came out in support of Ken Jefferson.
"Well, let me tell you -- it's a free country and you're allowed to endorse anybody you want" Williams said. "Endorsements will come to our campaign as well as they have tonight. But really, tonight is about focusing on these men who did a terrific job and I campaign and have had outstanding law enforcement careers in this community and know what it takes to keep this community safe."
Robin Lumb, who is chairman of the Republican Party in Duval County, was also there. He said Holderfield signed a party loyalty oath just last year, and Thursday that oath was broken.
"We are extra extraordinarily disappointed with the decision that Jimmy Holderfield made today," Lumb said. "It simply inexplicable. This is an agency that (is) supposed to be chock-full of leaders; that's what the whole purpose is behind their training and their rise through the ranks. (It's) to find the right leaders in the right positions that can do the job and eventually can run and serve the sheriff of Duval County.