FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - The fight for Broward County’s “top cop” is at stake on Election Day and both candidates hit the polls.
Incumbent Sheriff Scott Israel is running for re-election against Santiago Vazquez Jr, a former Broward Sheriff’s Office Sergeant.
Israel was at a polling place in Davie, Tuesday morning, talking to voters and discussing the importance of every vote.
“So many people in the last few weeks, and even over the last month who early voted, said ‘We voted for you, we voted for you,'” Israel said, “and it validates how hard you’ve worked, and people are letting you know by their vote.”
Israel touted crime statistics during his time as sheriff, as well as the implementation of body cameras on officers.
“We’ve done all the things we set out to do,” Israel said. “We’ve reduced violent crime. We’ve reduced burglaries. We’ve kept young kids out of jail and given kids chances. We’ve brought body cameras to Broward County.”
Vazquez also campaigned in Davie on Election Day.
“It’s very exciting for us because we know we are putting all our efforts into everything,” Vazquez said. “We’re waiting for today’s results, but every vote counts, so I’m here.”
Vazquez thanked his supporters and volunteers while campaigning at Rick Case Honda.
“I greatly appreciate everyone that’s been out here for us, our teams and our community,” Vazquez said. “You know our community is what makes it important for us, and that’s the reason why I’m running for Broward County Sheriff.”
Polls close at 7 p.m. across South Florida.
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