Facing a tough challenge from Dr. Charles Perniciaro for the Republican nomination, Sen. John Thrasher, R-Jacksonville, announced on Tuesday that he was being endorsed by the Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA). The winner of the Republican primary will face former news anchor Deborah Gianoulis, the Democratic candidate, in November.

“We are happy to announce our endorsement of John Thrasher for Senate District 8,” said President Vincent Champion of the Coastal Florida PBA. “Florida’s law enforcement and corrections officers are confident that John Thrasher will continue to be a committed supporter of law enforcement agents in our communities, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in the Florida Legislature.”

“I am deeply grateful to the PBA for choosing to endorse my re-election campaign,” said Thrasher. “Law enforcement agents play a vital role in keeping our communities safe. And, I look forward to the opportunity to continue being a voice for them in the Florida Senate, and make certain that they have the tools necessary to serve and protect the people of Northeast Florida.”