Florida’s Mustang Police Cruiser Just Won America’s Beauty Contest

Aesthetics Under The Law

Beauty will always be subjective, much like how some rejected the Tesla Cybertruck’s design for its unconventional take on a pickup, while others loved its bold, futuristic appeal. Still, contests can help reveal what the majority may be into at a given time.

The American Association of State Troopers (AAST) recently held the 13th edition of its annual national “Best Looking Cruiser” contest, which recognizes the best-looking state police cruisers in the U.S. Interestingly, the Florida Highway Patrol has been dominating the contest in recent years, capturing its fourth consecutive championship with its black-and-tan livery. While that is a notable achievement, the streak was on the verge of ending.

A Late Surge

According to the AAST, Michigan held the lead for nearly the entire contest until Florida secured the top spot during the final weekend of voting. Out of 360,433 total votes, Florida received 52,249, nearly 15,000 more than runner-up Michigan, which garnered 37,654.

“The Florida Highway Patrol is proud to have earned the American Association of State Troopers’ Best Looking Cruiser title for a historic fourth year in a row! We couldn’t be more grateful for everyone – Floridians, law enforcement partners, public officials, and FHP fans,” the Florida Highway Patrol wrote on Facebook.

Florida’s entry features a S650 Ford Mustang in the black-and-tan motif with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the background. Michigan challenged it with a blue Dodge Charger parked along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, with a Marine Services Team patrol boat completing the scene.

Taking third place was Georgia with 34,933 votes, followed by Ohio and Kentucky with 17,212 and 16,541 votes, respectively. Completing the top 10 were West Virginia (13,552 votes), Indiana (12,991), Oklahoma (11,544), Texas (11,162), and California (10,631). Meanwhile, Oregon finished last with just 185 votes.

More Than A Pretty Cruiser

However, the contest isn’t all for show. The Florida Highway Patrol’s winning entry will be featured on the cover of the AAST’s America’s Best Looking Trooper Cruisers 2027 Wall Calendar, with calendar sales benefiting the American Association of State Troopers Foundation. The foundation provides educational scholarships to the dependents of eligible member troopers.

As such, the AAST’s contest not only shines a spotlight on state troopers but also helps support their families. Future editions should be interesting to watch, particularly if entrants begin showcasing vehicles beyond traditional police staples, including EVs such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

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