The Jacksonville FOP is committed to improving the law enforcement profession and it understands that a strong legislative program is the catalyst for success. The lodge has worked diligently to establish relationships with lawmakers and to develop a respected legislative program on the local, state and national level.

The Jacksonville Lodge has established a thorough screening process for candidates seeking public office. When Lodge 5-30 makes a political endorsement, you can rest assured that the candidate possesses the qualities necessary to be called a "law enforcement candidate".

The Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 5-30 is pleased to announce Audrey Gibson has officially received the endorsement of the groups? membership.

On Tuesday, August 23, 2011, the political action committee made recommendations after completing interviews with candidates for Senate District 1. The seat will be filled by a special election on September 20, 2011 after Tony Hill resigned to join the Brown administration.

"Our political action committee takes great pride ensuring the endorsement of our organization is earned by the candidates who choose to be interviewed. Audrey, we felt, was best aligned with our goals to ensure taxpayers have an experienced fighter in the Senate who is ready to tackle the tough challenges that lie ahead," said Nelson Cuba, President of the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 5-30.

Senate District 1 encompasses parts of five counties from Duval to Putnam Counties. Early voting will be held from September 11th through the 17th for registered Democrats only. A write-in candidate closed the primary and will run against the winner in a Special General Election on October 18, 2011.

The Jacksonville FOP is a non-profit organization that protects and defends the interests of law enforcement officers of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. In addition to negotiating wages, benefits and terms and conditions of employment, the FOP guards the health, welfare and safety of its members through its program services. Lodge 5-30 is well known for its service to the community and to local charities. Representing almost three thousand active and retired Jacksonville police officers, correctional officers and sworn bailiffs, Lodge 5-30 is the largest law enforcement organization in the State of Florida and the 7th largest FOP lodge in the United States.

All Absentee Ballots must be returned to the Supervisor of Elections on or before Election Day. You may request an absentee ballot in person at the Supervisor of Elections Office located at 105 North Monroe Street in downtown Jacksonville. You may also request an absentee ballot by telephone at (904) 630-1414 or via the internet at http://www.duvalelections.com/items.aspx?id=28 .

The polls are open from 7:00am - 7:00pm on Election Day. Your assigned precinct is listed on your voter registration card. You are also required to present photo and signature ID at the precinct upon arriving at the precinct. To locate the correct precinct, please visit http://www.duvalelections.com/precinctfinder.aspx .