by KYW's Paul Kurtz

The Philadelphia chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police has endorsed John Dougherty in his bid for Vince Fumo's state senate seat (see previous story).

In announcing the endorsement, Lodge 5 president John McNesby called Dougherty -- head of the electricians' union in the city -- "the face of labor in Philadelphia."

"John Dougherty has worked in this city, in its neighborhoods, on its streets, and in its houses. John Dougherty defends the 40-hour work week that labor has given, while wishing there were more than 24 hours in every day so that he can get his goals accomplished."

Dougherty (right) said he was humbled and awed:

"This is something you always hope to get if you're a candidate, but to actually receive it from President McNesby -- the FOP endorsement -- is a very special day for me. Especially the campaign being centered around crime."

Dougherty pledged if he's elected to fight for additional state funding to put more cops on the streets, adding that the best way to market Philadelphia is by making it safer.
 
Fumo announced earlier this month that he was calling off his re-election bid because of the strain of a federal indictment (see related story).