Former Orlando Police Chief Val Demings on Wednesday announced that she is running for Congress in Florida’s 8th Congressional District.
Before a standing-room only crowd at the History Center downtown Orlando, Demings said that having served the Orlando Police Department for over twenty-five years, and three-and-a-half as its chief, she is convinced there is greater work for her to do.
Demings recalled advice her mother had given her twenty-eight years ago when she was moving from Jacksonville to join the Orlando Police Department, which she has never forgotten.
“When someone gives you the opportunity to do something big, work hard, stay focused and never ever grow tired of doing good,” Demings said.
In a wide-ranging speech that touched on America’s dependence on oil, its costly wars, the protection of Social Security and Medicare and the U.S.’s gargantuan national debt, Demings said that today is a different day and that things can be done differently.
“It’s time Congress started doing things differently. For once, Washington should stop the bickering and come up with solutions that make a difference in people’s lives, Demings stated. “I will work to turn the focus to creating an economy that grows jobs that last, health care that doesn’t harm seniors and implement an energy policy that breaks our destructive addiction to oil.”
Pointing to her record of service and commitment to reducing crime when she was Orlando’s police chief, Demings said she has stood up against the status quo and taken on those who said the challenges were too great. She declared that the race for Congress is all about doing things differently, doing it better and with solutions that make a difference in people’s lives.
“I have a proven record of dealing with and solving tough issues and building consensus to change communities,” Demings said. “My life’s work has been a commitment to serve the public the best way I know how. Representing you in Congress is the best way I know to continue that commitment.
Mayor Buddy Dyer, in his introduction said Val Demings’ commitment to Orlando’s residents and community extends far beyond the badge she wore. He added that prior to Demings becoming OPD’s chief, she served in every position within the department and earned her reputation through her exemplary leadership style and tenacity.
“Val is a natural leader and a role model to young people,” Dyer stated. “I can think of no one more well-equipped to represent us in the United States House of Representatives.”
