Sheriff Steube releases list of endorsements

Sheriff Brad Steube has released a list of endorsements that reads like a who's who of the Manatee County political, law enforcement and business establishment, as he seeks to bolster his re-election campaign.

Steube, who faces former sheriff's detective William Waldron, a Republican, and non-affiliated Alphonso Scott Junious, also announced he had qualified for the Aug. 14 primary ballot by turning in 2,000 petitions to the county elections office.

“I am humbled by the support of so many citizens of Manatee County,” Steube said in a statement. “They’ve helped us get the needed petitions signed and have helped us raise money for this campaign. I look forward to serving the citizens of Manatee County well throughout my next term, as I have more work to do to continue the efforts we started five years ago that are making such a positive impact on the county.”

Steube was appointed sheriff in 2007 after Charlie Wells retired. He was elected in his own right in 2008.

As of March 31, Steube had collected more than $116,000 in political contributions, more than any candidate for any local or county office.

Individuals and organizations endorsing Steube include:

United States Congressman Vern Buchanan
State Representative Jim Boyd
State Representative Greg Steube (the sheriff's son)
Former State Representative Bill Galvano
Former State Representative Ron Reagan
Former Senator John McKay
Former Senator Pat Neal
State Attorney Earl Moreland
Public Defender Larry Eger
Former Sheriff Charlie Wells
Longboat Key Police Chief Al Hogle
Bradenton Police Chief Mike Radzilowski
Holmes Beach Police Chief Jay Romine
Palmetto Police Chief Rick Wells
Mayor Wayne Poston, City of Bradenton
Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, City of Palmetto
Gulf Coast Builders Exchange
The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance
Fraternal Order of Police, Manatee Lodge 70
Suncoast Professional Firefighters and Paramedics, Local 2546