In a significant endorsement in the San Diego mayor’s race, the union representing San Diego Police officers announced Thursday that Todd Gloria is its choice in November.
“The San Diego Police Officers Association believes the choice for Mayor is clear: Todd Gloria,” said Jared Wilson, president of the SDPOA. “Mayor Gloria understands the needs of a large police department and the officers who serve our city.”
“He puts the welfare of San Diegans first and is the best choice to keep San Diego safe for the next four years,” Wilson added.
The endorsement comes despite Gloria’s challenger, Larry Turner, being a police officer.
In the announcement to union membership, the SDPOA cited “increasingly concerning” comments from Turner about whether the department needs more officers, and accused him lacking an understanding of the city’s budget process.
“I am honored to have the endorsement of our police officers — the men and women who risk their lives to protect all of us,” Gloria said. “This endorsement reflects their faith and trust in me to work with law enforcement to keep San Diego one of the safest big cities in the country.”
Gloria’s campaign has cited recent progress in lowering crime rates, with murder down 12%, rape down 16%, and burglary down 16% in the last year.
The SDPOA represents more than 1,850 law enforcement professionals. Gloria is also endorsed by San Diego’s firefighters and lifeguards.
