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| President Barack Obama lent his support to 118 candidates. |
Former President Barack Obama issued a list of more than 100 people running for federal and state office that he is endorsing. Among the 118 candidates receiving his backing are seven Asian Americans.
"I’m proud to endorse this diverse and hopeful collection of thoughtful, empathetic, and highly qualified Democrats," said Obama in a statement. "Together, these candidates will help us redeem our country’s promise by sticking up for working class people, restoring fairness and opportunity to our system, and fighting for the good of all Americans — not just those at the top."The Asian Americans candidates include Rep. T.J. Cox, a Filipino American in California; Rep. Andy Kim, a Korean American in New Jersey; Gina Ortiz Jones, a FilAm running in Texas' 23rd Congressional District; Sri Preston Kulkarni, running in for the 22nd Congressional District seat in Texas; and Sara Gideon, an Indian American challenging Maine's U.S. Senator Susan Collins.
State office candidates receiving Obama's blessing are Ronnie Chatterji, running for North Carolina's Treasurer; and Bangladesh Nina Ahmad, a candidate for Auditor General for Pennsylvania.
According to a statement from his office, Obama selected candidates “because their election would advance key goals: winning control of the U.S. Senate and holding the majority in the U.S. House; electing Democrats who will support fair redistricting in 2021; supporting alumni of his campaigns and Administration; and promoting diverse, emerging leaders for this time.”
According to a statement from his office, Obama selected candidates “because their election would advance key goals: winning control of the U.S. Senate and holding the majority in the U.S. House; electing Democrats who will support fair redistricting in 2021; supporting alumni of his campaigns and Administration; and promoting diverse, emerging leaders for this time.”
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| Sri Preston Kulkarni, left, and Gina Ortiz Jones were among the candidates in Texas endorsed by Obama |
Obama's endorsements were in 17 states but he lent his support to over two dozen candidates in Texas, the most of any state.
According to the press release, this list is only the first wave of candidates that he will back. More endorsements are sure to come from the former president, who is one of the most respected men in the country, according to polls.
Obama's blessing is not always that impactful. We know what happened to Hillary Clinton in 2016. Of the candidates Obama endorsed in 2018 midterms, 232 won their elections and 110 candidates lost.
"They make me optimistic not just about our party’s chances in November, but about our country’s future long after that," said Obama. "So if you’re in one of their districts or states, make sure you vote for them this fall. And if you can, vote early — by mail or in person."
For the complete list of Obama endorsees, click here.
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