Murphy, Booker quickly endorse Biden for re-election

President Joe Biden’s announcement this morning that he will seek re-election in 2024 immediately drew endorsements from Democratic leaders, including two New Jersey Democrats that might have run themselves if Biden called it quits.

“President Joe Biden has shown remarkable leadership getting our country back on track while protecting our freedoms from right-wing extremists,” said Gov. Phil Murphy.

Murphy said he was “excited to support his reelection and for (Democratic governors) to continue our strong partnership getting things done for the American people.”

“As President, Joe Biden has achieved historic levels of progress,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker.  “I am thrilled to support him and Kamala Harris for a second term.”

Murphy and Booker had both been considered potential candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination next year had Biden declined to seek a second term.  Booker had been part of a large group of Democrats who sought the presidency four years ago.

Biden faces minor primary challengers from anti-vaccination activist Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and author Marianne Williamson.

In an early morning video announcing his candidacy, Biden said that “every generation of Americans has faced a moment when they’ve had to defend democracy, stand up for our personal freedoms, and stand up for our right to vote and our civil rights. This is ours.  Let’s finish the job.”

“When I ran for President four years ago, I said we are in a battle for the soul of America – and we still are.  The question we are facing is whether in the years ahead we have more freedom or less freedom, more rights or fewer,” stated Biden.  “I know what I want the answer to be.  This is not a time to be complacent. That’s why I’m running for reelection.  I know America and I know we are good and decent people.  I know we are still a country that believes in honesty and respect, and treating each other with dignity. We’re a nation where we give hate no safe harbor. We believe that everyone is equal, and that everyone should be given a fair shot to succeed in this country.”