Murphy (far right) has been endorsed by the primary rival of West (far left). Rep. West's GOP rival backs Dem

Rep. Allen West’s GOP primary opponent endorsed the controversial Floridian’s Democratic challenger Wednesday and is slamming West.

“As a Republican for over 30 years, I’m embarrassed by the radical fringe that has taken over the party,” Martin County Sheriff Bob Crowder said in a statement released through Democrat Patrick Murphy’s campaign.


“Sadly, Allen West is their poster child, and the hateful, divisive comments he’s made throughout this campaign make it clear to me he’s the wrong choice for our district. I’m endorsing Patrick because he has the right temperament and respect for others – including people he doesn’t agree with. Unlike his opponent, Patrick will be able to work with both parties to make a difference for our community.”

West defeated Crowder in August with almost 75 percent of the vote. Crowder’s wife endorsed Murphy earlier in the campaign. The West campaign dismissed the endorsement.

“Crowder is a Democrat and a sore loser,” West campaign manager Tim Edson told the Huffington Post. “I’m shocked he waited this long. Perhaps Crowder hopes to continue cozying up to local Democrats so he can be their nominee against Allen West in 2014.”

Two independent polls released in October show West leading, but by very different margins: a WPTV poll found him with a nine-point edge, and a Sunshine State News poll had him leading by one point.

This article tagged under: Allen West