Three Massachusetts law enforcement agencies have endorsed Senator John McCain's presidential campaign.

U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign has received the endorsements of three Massachusetts law enforcement associations: the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) Police Patrolman’s Association, the MBTA Police Superior Officers’ Association, and the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Association of Italian American Police Officers.

“Calling to mind the tragic incidents of March 11, 2004, in Madrid and July 7 and 21, 2005, in London, it is apparent that public transit is and has been a target of those who would seek to do us harm,” said Lt. Sal Venturelli of the MBTA groups, which protect the passengers and assets of the metropolitan Boston mass transit system. “We need a president who supports us wholeheartedly in our efforts to combat this ever-present menace. We believe John McCain is that president and heartedly endorse him as the best candidate to achieve our goal.”

John McCain thanked the Massachusetts police leaders, saying, “I’m honored to have their support, I’m honored to have the support of law enforcement organizations all over this nation and I commit to them that as President of the United States, I will provide them with every tool that is necessary, including the ability to communicate with one another as first responders, including the equipment and including the training that they need as we continue defeating the challenge that we face in the 21st century.”

The MBTA Police Patrolman’s Association and the MBTA Police Superior Officers’ Association are labor unions focusing on counter-terrorism efforts in 175 towns and cities in the Boston area.

The Massachusetts Association of Italian American Police Officers is a fellowship and support organization for members of the law-enforcement community who are of Italian heritage.