Police organizations endorse both candidates in State Senate race

NEW WINDSOR – Members of police organizations appear to be divided in their support for the two candidates for the 39th State Senate District seat.
The New York State Union of Police Associations endorsed Democrat James Skoufis. The Orange County Shields organization backed Republican Thomas Basile.
The Union of Police Associations is backing Skoufis, currently an assemblyman,
“for his commitment to supporting law enforcement, their families,
and public safety.” The not-for-profit group that advocates for
the rights and welfare of public safety officers cited his opposition
to the paroling of cop killers, drafting a package of school safety proposals,
and supporting law enforcement and their families by enhancing disability
benefits for officers harmed in the line of duty.
The Orange County Shields supports Basile because “he has repeatedly
demonstrated a willingness to stand up for our law enforcement community
and their families,” said Shields President Michael Flower. “We
are confident we can trust Tom Basile to be there for us during these
challenging times,” he said.
Basile was also endorsed by the Orange Count Deputy Sheriffs Union.
The district represents portions of Ulster, Orange and Rockland counties.
The two men are vying for the post held by long-time Senator William Larkin, who is retiring at the end of the year.