EAST LYME—State Rep. Holly Cheeseman (R-37) on Wednesday announced that her campaign for reelection has been endorsed by the Connecticut Fraternal Order of Police (CT FOP), the state’s lodge in the nation’s largest law enforcement organization.
“It’s a true honor to receive the backing of this prestigious organization that works for the benefit of the women and men in uniform who put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our communities safe,” said Cheeseman, who is running for re-election to represent in the General Assembly the residents of East Lyme, Salem, and Montville. “I remain committed to doing everything I can to blunt the efforts of legislators who are intent on watering down our criminal justice system and making life more difficult for law enforcement officers.”
Cheeseman, of East Lyme, is among Republicans who fought the so-called “police accountability” bill from legislative Democrats that, among other measures, made it easier for individuals to file frivolous lawsuits against law enforcement officers. Additionally, she has joined her Republican colleagues in calling for reforms to approve accountability in the state’s criminal justice system and has been a strong advocate for victims’ rights.
In its endorsement, CT FOP President Sgt. John Flynn described the organization’s faith in Cheeseman to work to improve Connecticut and its communities.
“It is clear to us that your platform and agenda is to make Connecticut a better State for Law Enforcement and a safer State for our citizens,” he stated.
The Fraternal Order of Police is the nation’s largest law enforcement organization, with over 325,000 members and over 2,100 lodges throughout the United States. Founded in 1915, the F.O.P. represents professional, full-time officers from all agencies of law enforcement. Active membership in the Fraternal Order of Police is open to all full-time law enforcement officers and retired officers, regardless of rank. Municipal, county, state and federal government officers are eligible for membership.
The Connecticut State Lodge has its own Executive Board and Board of Trustees with its own Constitution and By-Laws. The Connecticut State Lodge provides specific programs and assistance needed for the Local Lodges of Connecticut. The State Lodge also assists with many different charitable organizations and groups within Connecticut.
Cheeseman is the House Ranking Member of the legislature’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee.