An Arizona union that represents state public safety employees withdrew its endorsement of U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema this week after its members said that the executive board voted on the endorsement without their input, Fox News informed.
Sinema, a Democrat, is locked in a tight U.S. Senate race against U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, a Republican, for the seat being vacated by Republican Sen. Jeff Flake.
After members objected to the board’s actions, the Arizona State Troopers Association sent an email Monday to ask its members whether they want to give their support to Sinema or stay neutral.
The survey indicated “the membership has indicated a preference to stay neutral.”
“All members are encouraged to vote for the candidate they personally support,” the email said. “AZTroopers will refrain from any political statements concerning the race until the conclusion of the election.”
Dave McDowell, who is a member of the association and retired lieutenant, told the paper that members hadn’t been consulted prior to the Sinema endorsement.
“That displeased a number of members, including myself,” McDowell said.
McDowell said he supports McSally, but doesn’t think the union should be endorsing candidates at all.
“The Troopers have spoken,” a McSally campaign spokeswoman said in a text message to the Republic.
Sinema, whose brother is a Tucson police officer, received the union’s endorsement in her past three campaigns.
In an email to the paper, the Sinema campaign said it respects the association’s decision.
“We respect the association’s decision to remain neutral given the divisive tone of the race and appreciate their support for Kyrsten’s past three elections, as well as continued support from members and law enforcement officers across the state,” a spokeswoman said.
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