Anne Arundel County's largest public safety union will not endorse a candidate for county executive.
Keith Whalen, president of the International Association of Firefighters Local 1563, announced late Tuesday the union would not endorse Democrat George Johnson or Republican Steve Schuh because its members believe both make formidable candidates.
The union previously endorsed former County Executive John R. Leopold. While Whalen said residual effects from that action were a factor with some members in the recent decision, the move was ultimately made because Johnson and Schuh both understand the union's concerns.
Whalen said he would be happy whatever the race's outcome.
The union did endorse Democrats Pete Smith, Andy Werner, Andrew Pruski, Patrick Armstrong and Chris Trumbauer in County Council races. It did not make endorsements in Districts 3 and 7.
It also endorsed Wes Adams, the Republican candidate for state's attorney, and Democratic Sheriff Ron Bateman, who is running for re-election.
Local 1563 represents more than 800 county firefighters.