Biden picks up endorsement of early O’Rourke backer Sean Maloney

Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (D-N.Y.) endorsed former Vice President Joe Biden in the Democratic presidential primary on Monday, less than a month away from the first-in-the-nation Iowa caucuses. 

“As voters go to the polls over the coming months, I hope they will join me in voting for Joe Biden,” Maloney said in a statement. 

The New York Democrat had been an early backer of former Rep. Beto O’Rourke’s presidential campaign before the Texas Democrat dropped out of the primary in November. 

Maloney is now pitching Biden as an experienced lawmaker who is best prepared to take on President Trump in 2020. 

“Joe Biden’s unmatched record, command of domestic and foreign affairs, and progressive vision for America’s future is the leadership we need at this critical moment,” Maloney said. 

“Joe hasn’t just advocated for progressive change throughout his career, he’s delivered on it — from ushering through the Violence Against Women Act, to fighting shoulder to shoulder alongside President Obama to pass Obamacare, and supporting marriage equality,” he added.
“As president, I know he’ll build on that progress — and address the climate emergency, rebuild the middle class, and ensure everyone is treated with dignity.”

Maloney’s endorsement comes after another member of New York’s congressional delegation, Rep. Tom Suozzi (D), backed Biden in April. 

Earlier Monday, moderate New York Rep. Max Rose (D) announced he would be backing former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in the presidential race.