In the final month of the Santa Barbara County sheriff’s race, both challenger Bill Brown and the incumbent, Sheriff Jim Anderson, are battling to the finish, as each opponent vies for endorsements to swing the election in their favor.

This week, Lompoc Police Chief Brown received three endorsements for sheriff, one of which came from the UCSB Police Officers Association. Meanwhile, Anderson said he has received several significant new endorsements recently, but will not disclose them until later this week.

In a press release, the president of the UCSB Police Officers Association, Darren Miller, said the organization endorsed Brown because he is a strong leader.

“We feel that integrity, dedication, creativity and leadership are key components to the success of all law enforcement agencies,” Miller said.

Brown also received an endorsement from a labor organization, Tri-Counties Building and Construction Trades Council, and Carpinteria Mayor Brad Stein. Brown said he was happy to receive a broad range of support over the past several days, especially the endorsement from the UCSB Police Officers Association.

“I feel it is very significant because it is the only law enforcement agency besides the one at the City College that polices a place of higher learning,” Brown said. “They work closely with the sheriff and are in a good position to know we need a change in leadership.”

Anderson has received several notable endorsements, including the Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriff’s Association and the Santa Barbara County Firefighters. Anderson emphasized the importance of the County Deputy Sheriff’s Association.

“I’m really proud to have the support of the County Deputy Sheriff’s Association,” Anderson said. “In a race for sheriff, it is the most important one – they represent the county’s first responders.”

Both candidates recently reached out to students to attract votes. Anderson hosted a barbeque in Isla Vista last Saturday, and Brown visited campus on Wednesday.