SEBRING — Florida Attorney General Republican candidate Ashley Moody continues to tout her endorsements from the majority of county sheriffs, in another highly visible, highly contested race in the Sunshine state.
Moody, a former circuit judge and federal prosecutor, has gained the endorsement of 57 of Florida's 66 sheriffs, according to her campaign. Among those sheriffs is Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman who said he is impressed by Moody's experience.
"Ashley's lengthy experience as a prosecuting attorney and judge as well as her education are second to none," Blackman told the Florida Record.
Blackman was also impressed that Moody visited Highlands County to discuss the issues law enforcement faces in Florida, he said.
"I have many reasons (for the endorsement) but a few of the main reasons are because Ashley took the time to come to Highlands County and meet with me face to face," Blackman said. "Ashley asked me what concerns I had as a sheriff regarding the future of Florida."
"Her past job experience will bring knowledge, professionalism, discernment and wisdom to the Attorney General's office," he said.
This November, Moody will face off against Democrat Sean Shaw, a consumer insurance attorney and first-term House member from Tampa.
"I personally have never met Sean Shaw so I do not know anything at all about the person," Blackman said. "I have never received a request to meet with him or a phone call from anyone representing him. Ashley has proven to me a willingness to listen to both sides prior to making a decision which I feel is very important.”
Moody will be able to focus on all of the issues the state faces, not just one particular area, Blackman said.
"As the top law enforcement officer of the state, she must remain fluid and knowledgeable on several topics," he said. "I believe Ashley possess that ability and will do her best to continue to keep Florida's citizens and visitors safe."