Val Demings for Congress

Today, former Orlando Police Chief Val Demings announced that she is running for Congress in Florida’s 8^th Congressional District.  

“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,” stated Val Demings.  “I will work to turn the focus to creating an economy that grows jobs that last, heath care that doesn’t harm seniors and implementing an energy policy that breaks our destructive addiction to oil.”

Prior to serving as Chief of Police, Demings earned a reputation as a tenacious, no-nonsense cop.  After serving in the Criminal Investigations Division, Internal Affairs and other departments, she was tapped to serve as the Commander of the Special Operations.  There, she was responsible for some of Orlando’s highest profile jobs, including special events, dignitary protection, and K-9 unit.

In 2007, Demings was selected to serve as Police Chief for the Orlando Police Department – the first woman to ever hold that position.  Upon taking office, she launched an all-out war against crime.  Her tenure was marked by a dramatic forty percent reduction in violent crime, including robberies, shootings and murders.  Under her bold and aggressive leadership, thousands of guns were removed from Orlando’s streets.

Demings was joined today by friends and family, and introduced by Mayor Buddy Dyer.

“Val Demings has spent the last 25 years serving the residents of Orlando and keeping them safe as a law enforcement officer.  But, her commitment to our residents and her impact on our community extends far beyond the badge she wore.  Val is a natural leader and a role model to young people.  I can think of no one more well-equipped to represent us in the United States House of Representatives.”  

Demings’ husband Jerry is also a respected leader in Orlando law enforcement, and is currently serving as the Sheriff of surrounding Orange County. The mother of three sons and an active motorcyclist, Val Demings is committed to her family, her church and her community.