Updated, Monday, September 23, 2:46 p.m.
Bill de Blasio has received the presidential seal of approval.
President Barack Obama announced Monday he is officially endorsing de Blasio for mayor.
“Progressive change is the centerpiece of Bill de Blasio’s vision for New York City, and it’s why he will be a great mayor of America’s largest city. Whether it’s ensuring pre-kindergarten is available for every four-year old, expanding after-school programs for every middle school student who wants and needs them, making affordable housing available for more New York families and preserving community hospitals, Bill’s agenda for New York is marked by bold, courageous ideas that address the great challenges of our time,” Obama said in a statement.
De Blasio said he was “deeply honored” by the president’s support.
“I will work every day to advance our shared value of making sure everyone has a fair shot. On health care, tax fairness or the economy, the President is no stranger to addressing big problems with big ideas and big solutions. I will emulate the example he has set, and if elected I stand eager to work with him on an urban agenda that grows prosperity for all.”
The president joins a growing list of national and state Democratic leaders who have backed de Balsio for mayor, including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U.S Senator Charles Schumer and Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Today, de Balsio also received the endorsement of the Queens County Democratic Party, which had backed City Council Speaker Christine Quinn in the mayoral primary.
“New York City needs a leader who has a progressive vision for the future and only Bill de Blasio has the record and experience to deliver on it,” said Congressmember Joe Crowley, chair of the Queens County Democrats. “Bill is someone who will fight tirelessly for all New Yorkers, not just some. He understands the many challenges our diverse communities face and will bridge the inequalities in our city while strengthening the middle class.”
De Blasio said he was “honored to receive the endorsement of the Queens County Democrats, a group of city leaders that has consistently represented and upheld the rights of working and middle-class families across the borough.”
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