Georgia Republican Senate candidate Herschel Walker defended his decision to display a prop badge during Friday’s debate against his opponent, Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga.
Walker pulled out the badge on stage during the topic of police support, leaving many in the audience shocked and the moderators of the debate dumbfounded.
In an interview after the debate with NBC, Walker defended his use of the prop, claiming it was “legit” and presented to him by law enforcement from his hometown.
“This is from my hometown. This is from Johnson County, from the sheriff of Johnson County, which is a legit badge,” Walker said during the interview.
During the debate, Warnock ridiculed Walker for his past false claims regarding his role with law enforcement and reported erratic behavior.
Walker responded, saying “No, no, no, I have to respond to that.”
“You know what’s so funny,” Walker said as he brandished the police badge. “I am work with many police officers.”
The stunt was against the rules of the debate, as moderators let Walker know, but the Republican candidate is standing by the legitimacy of the prop.
“This badge gives me the right…If anything happens in this county, I have the right to work with the police to get things done,” Walker told NBC.
The badge stunt is just the latest controversy to tackle the Walker campaign, as the ex-NFL running back continues to fight claims that allege he paid for an ex-girlfriend’s abortion and tried to pressure her into having another one.
The Georgia Senate race is a top priority for both Democrats and Republicans, as the seat is key if Democrats have any hope of retaining power in the Senate. Polls show a tight race headed into the Nov. 8 election, with Politico calling it a toss up.
