New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker endorsed Hillary Clinton for president Monday night, just hours before Gov. Christie, a longtime ally, was set to announce his own campaign.
"Hillary has fought for her entire career to expand opportunities for all Americans, and these last few months have been amazing to behold," Booker, a national Democratic figure in his own right, wrote in an e-mail to his supporters. Citing some of the signature issues of his Senate career, Booker said Clintong has backed many of the same causes.
"We've seen Hillary exhibit outstanding leadership not only on apprenticeships and youth unemployment, but also criminal justice reform -- all issues you and I care deeply about," Booker wrote.
Booker's endorsement of the overwhelming Democratic favorite is no surprise. Sen. Bob Casey (D., Pa.) is another who has quickly endorsed the former first lady and secretary of state. But Booker's announcement does come just as Christie, a Republican whom Booker embraced as mayor of Newark, launches his own bid. Booker's words provide Clinton with star power from a political figure with rare pop culture appeal.
His endorsement also comes just before the June 30 deadline for second quarter fundraising. The stronger Clinton's showing when the next campaign finance reports are released – July 15 -- the more she can add to her sense of dominance over the Democratic field.
"I want to do everything I can to help her," Booker wrote. "Tomorrow, she faces the first (Federal Election Commission) filing deadline of her campaign."
He then asked supporters to "make a giant showing of grassroots support" and urges donations to Clinton.
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