Florida Highway Patrol Seeks Public Votes in National "Best Looking Cruiser" Contest
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is once again asking for the public's support as it competes in the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) "Best Looking Cruiser" Contest, hoping to make history with a fourth consecutive national title.
For the past three years, Florida's iconic black-and-tan patrol vehicle has claimed the top honor, making the Sunshine State the first in the competition's history to win three straight championships. Now, the Florida Highway Patrol is encouraging Floridians and supporters across the country to help secure another victory.
Voting is open now and continues through Monday, July 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. EDT.
How to Vote
Voting only takes a few moments:
- Visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026bestlookingcruiser
- Scroll to the voting section.
- Select Florida from the dropdown menu.
- Submit your vote.
Officials say you may vote once per device, allowing supporters to cast votes from multiple personal devices.
The top 13 state patrol agencies receiving the most votes will be featured in the 2027 AAST "Best Looking Cruiser" wall calendar, with the overall winner earning the coveted cover photo.
This year's submission features one of FHP's signature 2023 Ford Mustang 5.0 GT patrol cars photographed in front of Tampa's Sunshine Skyway Bridge during a classic Florida afternoon thunderstorm.
To commemorate America's 250th anniversary, the bridge was illuminated in red, white, and blue, creating a dramatic backdrop symbolizing patriotism, service, and public safety.
The featured Mustang is assigned to 2025 Florida Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year David Kitchen.
According to FHP, Trooper Kitchen earned the distinction following a dangerous multi-county pursuit on July 14, 2024, involving a reckless driver on Interstate 75. The pursuit ended after the suspect crashed into multiple vehicles, resisted arrest, and obtained a firearm from inside the vehicle. Officials said Trooper Kitchen used deadly force to stop the threat before immediately rendering aid to the injured suspect.
Supporting Troopers Nationwide
While the contest celebrates law enforcement vehicles, officials say it also benefits an important cause.
The American Association of State Troopers, founded by Florida State Troopers in 1989 and headquartered in Tallahassee, uses proceeds from calendar sales to support the AAST Foundation, which provides:
- Educational scholarships for dependents of member troopers.
- Line-of-duty death benefits for surviving families.
- Financial assistance for troopers whose homes are damaged or destroyed during natural disasters.
Officials Encourage Public Participation
"Join me in celebrating 250 years of American strength and progress, while also celebrating the iconic black-and-tan cruiser and the heroes who drive them," said Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner. "While the contest is a fun opportunity to showcase the best of law enforcement across the country, it also supports a truly important cause. A vote for FHP is a vote for Florida."
Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze added that troopers take tremendous pride in the vehicles they drive every day.
"Our black-and-tan cruiser is more than a symbol of service—it's an iconic reflection of the dedication and professionalism of every Florida State Trooper patrolling the roadways of the Free State of Florida."
Those wishing to support Florida's entry can vote online by visiting the official contest page before voting closes on July 13.
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