New London — The New London Police Union, AFSCME Local 724, has endorsed Republican incumbent state Sen. Paul Formica, R-East Lyme, in the 20th District Senate race.

In a rematch from the 2018 election, Formica is being challenged by Martha Marx of New London.

“Senator Formica has the proven experience and a demonstrated civic leader with a history of fighting to preserve essential services for local communities including police and public safety,” union President Todd Lynch said in a statement. “More importantly, Paul stood with police realizing the problems with the Police Accountability Bill tied the hands of law enforcement, handcuffing our ability to succeed.”

The New London police union represents 68 police officers. Its executive board, made up of nine elected members, voted on Formica’s endorsement.