By Times Staff Writer
Published September 11, 2004
Florida firefighters Friday endorsed Democrat Betty Castor over Republican Mel Martinez in the U.S. Senate race.
The Florida Professional Firefighters praised Castor's "strong commitment to preparing firefighters and first responders and making sure Florida's communities are safe and secure."
"I'm delighted with the endorsement," Castor said. "The firefighters are big, so that's good."
Martinez, who ran Orange County's government before he became President Bush's housing chief, said he disagrees with the endorsement.
"I think my record in Orange County is beyond reproach," he said. "I have had hands-on experience working with first responders as they face daily emergencies. I don't think that's an experience Betty Castor has had."
The group represents 19,000 paid professional and emergency medical personnel in more than 150 cities, counties and fire districts in the state.
