Now, deputies and firefighters from Salt Lake County and Salt Lake City have joined the chorus.
On Wednesday, Winder, the Democratic candidate for county sheriff, received endorsements from the Salt Lake County Deputy Sheriffs Federation and Salt Lake Police Association along with city and county firefighter unions.
"It speaks volumes," Winder said after the announcement at his campaign headquarters. "This demonstrates I'm reaching out to a broad base of constituents and, more importantly, they're reaching back."
Union bosses say Winder, a longtime sheriff's deputy, has a better feel for what officers face in the field.
"Jim Winder is a working cop," Shawn Roberts, president of the Salt Lake County Deputy Sheriff's Federation, said in a statement, asserting that the challenger is in touch with the needs of his fellow officers unlike Kennard, who is seeking a fifth term.
Tom Gallegos, president of the Salt Lake Police Association, also praised Winder, saying leadership is proven by actions.
"We desire someone who is fully engaged, passionate about his work and committed to working long hours keeping you safe, not out playing golf in another county."
The golf swipe follows recent news reports that revealed Kennard had posted nearly two-dozen scores for 18-hole rounds - many on weekdays at a Utah County country club - since late summer.
Kennard defended his golf hobby, saying he hits the links in lieu of vacation. Public safety, he added, never has suffered since he is available all hours, seven days a week.
"Gallegos knows full well that his own chief loves to golf with me," Kennard said Wednesday. "Neither one of us makes excuses. We are fully engaged 24-7."
Instead, the Republican sheriff dismissed the golf jab as pure politics. "It does not surprise me in the least."
The sheriff also noted he has the nod from the Salt Lake County Deputy Sheriffs Association, Salt Lake County Corrections Officers Association and Utah Public Employees Association along with a host of mayors.
"They represent the majority of the office," Kennard said.
The union spokesmen endorsing Winder will be featured on new billboards that feature the tag line: "The people who risk their lives everyday, support Winder for Sheriff."
djensen@sltrib.com
