Florida Highway Patrol enters 2026 national Best Looking Cruiser contest aiming for fourth consecutive victory in AAST competition

Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has officially entered the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) “Best Looking Cruiser” competition, continuing a streak that has already placed Florida at the top of the national spotlight for three consecutive years.

For the past three contests, FHP’s signature black and tan patrol vehicles have claimed the title, making Florida the first state in the history of the competition to win three years in a row. Now, state officials are once again calling on Floridians—and supporters across the country—to help extend that record to a fourth straight victory.

Voting for the 2026 competition opens Monday, June 29 at 10:00 a.m. EST and runs through Monday, July 13 at 12:00 p.m. EST. At the end of the voting period, the 13 states receiving the most votes will be featured in the AAST’s 2027 wall calendar. The top-ranked cruiser overall will appear on the calendar cover.

Officials say participation in the contest has grown significantly in recent years, partly due to strong public interest in law enforcement agencies showcasing their vehicles, branding, and state pride on a national stage.

This year’s Florida entry carries added symbolism. The cruiser was photographed in front of Tampa’s iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge during a typical afternoon thunderstorm, capturing what officials described as a distinctly Florida moment—heavy skies, bright light, and coastal energy all at once.

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To mark America’s 250th anniversary, the bridge was illuminated in red, white, and blue during the photo session, reinforcing the patriotic theme behind the submission. State officials say the imagery reflects both national celebration and the core mission of the Florida Highway Patrol, which focuses on public safety, service, and protection across the state’s highways.

The featured vehicle is an iconic black and tan 2023 Ford Mustang 5.0 GT, a model that has become closely associated with FHP’s modern patrol fleet and public image.

Behind the wheel assignment is 2025 Trooper of the Year Trooper David Kitchen, whose service record includes one of the most serious and complex incidents handled by the agency in recent years.

Trooper Kitchen earned the recognition following a multi-county pursuit on July 14, 2024, involving a reckless driver traveling southbound on Interstate 75. According to officials, the situation escalated when the suspect collided with multiple vehicles, resisted arrest, and gained access to a firearm inside the vehicle.

At that point, Trooper Kitchen used deadly force to neutralize the threat. Immediately after the incident, he rendered aid to the injured suspect, as well as ensuring safety for other victims and motorists involved in the crash. Officials have described his actions as a reflection of professional training, rapid decision-making, and a commitment to protecting public safety under extreme pressure.

Florida Highway Patrol leadership says the choice of his assigned cruiser for this year’s contest highlights both the human side of law enforcement and the high level of responsibility troopers carry every day.

“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 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, which is giving back to the men and women who wear the badge. A vote for FHP is a vote for Florida.”

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FHP officials also emphasized that the competition is about more than appearance. While the public often focuses on vehicle design and visual appeal, the agency says the contest also helps highlight the broader mission and daily work of state troopers.

“The members of the Florida Highway Patrol take great pride in the vehicles that support our mission every day,” said Colonel Gary Howze. “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. We appreciate the continued support from communities across Florida and beyond as we compete once again in this year’s American Association of State Troopers national contest.”

The AAST competition itself has a deeper purpose beyond the annual ranking of state patrol vehicles. Founded in 1989 by Florida State Troopers and headquartered in Tallahassee, the association now includes thousands of members across the country.

Proceeds from the calendar sales tied to the contest go directly toward the AAST Foundation. Those funds support educational scholarships for the dependents of member troopers, provide financial assistance for families of officers killed in the line of duty, and offer relief to troopers affected by natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.

In that sense, officials say, the “Best Looking Cruiser” contest blends public engagement with meaningful long-term support for law enforcement families nationwide.

While Florida enters the competition as a three-time defending champion, officials are quick to stress that each year brings new challenges and new competitors from across the country. Still, confidence remains high within the agency, fueled by strong public backing and a growing sense of tradition around the black and tan cruiser.

Supporters who want to participate in voting can do so online by visiting FLHSMV.gov/VoteFHP.

As voting opens, Florida once again finds itself in a familiar position—defending a national title while asking residents to rally behind one of the most recognizable patrol fleets in the country.