The leading law enforcement association in Miami-Dade backed the former Florida Highway Patrol lieutenant in his bid for Group 5 of the circuit court. The endorsement arrives weeks before the August 18 primary
The South Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) announced its endorsement of Alex Annunziato’s candidacy for Miami-Dade 11th Judicial Circuit Court judge, Group 5, through a letter signed by its president, Steadman Stahl, who underscored the candidate’s commitment to the safety of county residents and his understanding of the daily challenges that law enforcement officers face.
In the letter, Stahl stated that the association endorses judicial candidates who prioritize law and order and demonstrate dedication to the safety of Miami-Dade residents. The president informed Annunziato that he had earned the group’s support and authorized him to use the endorsement and the organization’s logo in his campaign advertising.
“It is with great pleasure that I write to inform you that the South Florida PBA is endorsing your candidacy,” wrote president Steadman Stahl.
A career devoted to public service
Annunziato was born and raised in South Florida and is a graduate of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. He served as a Florida Highway Patrol trooper from 2000 to 2011, a period in which he reached the rank of lieutenant, and he also served as an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve.
After he graduated from law school, he worked as an assistant public defender and later as a civil trial attorney who represented both plaintiffs and defendants. He was also an adjunct professor at the Miami-Dade School of Justice and devoted pro bono hours to immigrants and to victims of domestic violence.
The context of the race
Annunziato’s candidacy seeks the vacancy left by Judge Angélica Zayas, who retires from the court. The candidate has centered his campaign message on a commitment to fairness and to real courtroom experience.
“Every litigant and every lawyer will receive a fair hearing, a prepared judge and a courtroom defined by respect,” Annunziato states on his campaign platform.
The association, which describes itself as “the voice of law enforcement,” is headquartered in Doral and represents officers from several police agencies across South Florida.