South Florida Construction Union Backs James Reyes for Miami-Dade Sheriff
James Reyes, the Chief of Public Safety for Miami-Dade, has received the endorsement of a prominent South Florida construction and craft workers’ union in his bid for county Sheriff.
Reyes’ campaign has announced that LiUNA Local 1652, a local chapter of the Florida AFL-CIO representing workers from Miami-Dade, Broward, West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie, and Fort Myers, is supporting his candidacy.
Miguel Aragon, Business Manager of LiUNA Local 1652, commended Reyes for his unwavering commitment to community safety, public trust, and worker advocacy. Aragon noted that Reyes’ dedication to transparency, accountability, and public safety aligns with the core values of LiUNA, and expressed strong confidence in his ability to lead.
This endorsement follows a similar one from SEIU Florida and adds to Reyes’ growing list of supporters, which includes various collective bargaining organizations such as the South Florida Police Benevolent Association, the National Association of Police Organizations, South Florida AFL-CIO, AFSCME Florida, and GSAF Local 100.
Reyes, who has also been endorsed by Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Palm Beach Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony, and other local officials, expressed his appreciation for LiUNA’s support.
He emphasized that their endorsement strengthens his resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of South Florida’s residents and workers.
After winning the Democratic Primary by defeating three opponents, Reyes has secured his place on the General Election ballot. He will compete against Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Assistant Miami-Dade Police Director and a Republican endorsed by former President Donald Trump, U.S. Senator Rick Scott, U.S. Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart and Carlos Giménez, 27 current Florida Sheriffs, the Hispanic Police Officers Association, and former Miami-Dade Commissioner Sally Heyman.
Cordero-Stutz also emerged victorious in her Republican Primary, overcoming 10 rivals, some of whom have since endorsed her, while one has supported Reyes.
Since 1966, Miami-Dade has not had an elected Sheriff, with the Mayor serving as the de facto Sheriff and an appointed Police Director reporting to them. However, a 2018 referendum approved by 58% of voters has mandated the return of an elected Sheriff.
The candidates are scheduled to debate in English on October 6, with Reyes also agreeing to a Spanish-language debate on October 20, pending final agreement from Cordero-Stutz’s team. The General Election is set for November 5.
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