John Rodgers, Democratic Party Sheriff Endorses Kamala Harris for President

Clark County Sheriff Backs California Senator in 2020 Race

Rodgers Praises Harris's Criminal Justice Reform Platform

Clark County Sheriff John Rodgers has endorsed Kamala Harris for president, becoming the first Ohio sheriff to back the California senator in the 2020 race.

In a statement released Monday, Rodgers praised Harris's criminal justice reform platform, saying that she is "the best candidate to address the challenges facing our justice system."

Harris has made criminal justice reform a centerpiece of her campaign, proposing a number of policies aimed at reducing mass incarceration and racial disparities in the justice system.

Rodgers said that he was particularly impressed by Harris's proposal to end cash bail, which he said would help to reduce the number of people who are jailed simply because they cannot afford to pay bail.

"Cash bail is a system that discriminates against the poor and people of color," Rodgers said. "It's time to end this system and replace it with a more fair and just one."

Rodgers also praised Harris's record as a prosecutor, saying that she has "a proven track record of fighting for justice and holding people accountable."

Harris served as the district attorney of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011 and as the California attorney general from 2011 to 2017.

Rodgers's endorsement is a significant boost for Harris's campaign in Ohio, a key swing state in the 2020 election.

Ohio is home to a large number of black voters, who are a key constituency for Harris.

Harris is currently polling in second place in Ohio, behind former Vice President Joe Biden.

However, Harris's campaign is hoping to make inroads in Ohio by appealing to moderate voters who are concerned about criminal justice reform.

Rodgers's endorsement could help Harris to make a strong case to these voters.