The Arizona State Troopers Association has withdrawn its endorsement of Rep. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) in her Senate race against Rep. Martha McSally (R-Ariz.), according to the Arizona Republic.
The newspaper reported that some members of the association said they weren’t consulted in the association’s decision to endorse Sinema, prompting the association to send an email to its members asking if they wanted to endorse Sinema or stay neutral.
A separate email that the association sent to its members said the email poll revealed that “the membership has indicated a preference to stay neutral,” according to the Republic.
{mosads}”All members are encouraged to vote for the candidate they personally support,” the email reportedly said. “AZTroopers will refrain from any political statements concerning the race until the conclusion of the election.”
According to the Republic, the association has endorsed Sinema in past elections and Sinema’s campaign had touted the endorsement as evidence of her record on law enforcement and border issues.
Sinema spokeswoman Helen Hare said in an email to the newspaper that the campaign respects “the association’s decision to remain neutral.”
“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,” Hare said.