Local Government Bailey Earns Sheriff Steube's Endorsement in Supervisor of Elections Race

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BRADENTON -- Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube has endorsed Ed Bailey in the crowded race to replace retiring Supervisor of Elections Bob Sweat. Bailey, the Manatee County NAACP President, is one of six Republicans who have filed to seek the GOP nomination for the position.

Senator Mike Bennett and former County Commissioner Jane von Hamen are also among those who have filed. Charles Williams is the lone Democrat to file for the race thus far.

Of Sheriff Steube's nomination, Bailey said he felt "humbled and honored to be endorsed by a true steward who has passion and integrity and shares the same values, morals and loves Manatee County just as much as I do."

Steube said that he has worked closely with Bailey since being elected Sheriff and that he feels that Bailey is in the race "for all the right reasons."

The veteran Sheriff, who is also up for reelection in November, named Bailey's dedication to faith, family and the community in which the Palmetto native was raised as reasons he feels Bailey is the right man for the job, along with Bailey's concern with "making sure that every qualified person has the opportunity to register and vote." Steube called Bailey's wife Xtavia's extensive work with the youth of the community a "bonus."