Orange County mayoral candidate Val Demings sent supporters an email blast Saturday that said she would not shy from her state Democratic Party support or speaking engagements to national groups “that empower women.”
“I’m running for mayor and my opponent wants to attack me for highlighting my support from the Democratic Party and speaking to organizations that empower women,” the message said. “Let me tell you something – I am not scared. I am proud.”
Demings is slated to take on Republican Mayor Teresa Jacobs in a nonpartisan race this fall.
The message went out a day after Political Pulse noted Demings’ recent trip to New York City for a speaking engagement tied to groups who back progressive and black women candidates. It also quoted a Jacobs supporter who chided the state Democratic Party’s support of the Demings campaign. Read it here.
Aside from making a fundraising pitch to support her campaign, here’s what else Demings told backers:
“I was asked to speak at an event sponsored by an organization which strives to engage and inspire women of color, like myself, in leadership. The event was co-hosted by an organization which promotes pro-choice, Democratic women candidates. I was honored to be asked.
As Orlando’s first female Police Chief, I get it and I like to share my story. What I’m not, is scared. I’m not scared to share my principles or my personal story.”
Demings embraces state, national support – Orlando Sentinel.
