A Democratic official is endorsing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), saying he “was the obvious choice this election cycle.”
Dave Kerner, Palm Beach County’s Democratic commissioner, took to Twitter to announce his endorsement.
“Gov. DeSantis’ Dem opponent has called for reallocation of resources away from law enforcement. FL cannot afford people like Charlie Crist who wants to defund the police and make our communities less safe,” Kerner tweeted.
During a press conference at the Police Benevolent Association in West Palm Beach, Kerner said, “Every day until Nov. 8th, I will campaign for Gov. DeSantis, and on Nov. 8th, I will vote for Gov. DeSantis.”
Turning to DeSantis, Kerner said he is “very proud that you felt my endorsement was worthy of acceptance.”
He continued, “This was not the proverbial lesser of two evils.”
Kerner told the crowd DeSantis has “demonstrated himself beyond worthy of the humbling duties of this office.”
He acknowledged his decision to endorse DeSantis would come as a shock to some.
“I will not remain silent. There is too much on the line in this election,” Kerner said.
The official went on to criticize DeSantis’ opponent, Democratic candidate Charlie Crist, over his plans to reallocate funds from the police.
Endorsing Gov. @RonDeSantisFL was the obvious choice this election cycle.
— Dave Kerner (@DavidMKerner) September 21, 2022
Gov. DeSantis' Dem opponent has called for reallocation of resources away from law enforcement.
FL cannot afford people like Charlie Crist who wants to defund the police & make our communities less safe. pic.twitter.com/LtIy5zgw85
According to the latest Suffolk University/USA TODAY Network poll, DeSantis is currently leading Crist 48% to 41%.
During his first press conference as Florida’s Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Crist delivered a harsh message to supporters of DeSantis.
“Those who support the governor should stay with him and vote for him. And I don’t want your vote. If you have that hate in your heart, keep it there,” Crist said.
Crist also made headlines last week after responding to the question of whether the Department of Justice should get involved after DeSantis sent migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
“That sounds appropriate to me. Justice needs to be served here,” Crist said.