Delgado endorsed by President Obama in 19th district race

Jack Howland | Poughkeepsie Journal

Show Caption Hide Caption Video: Democratic Candidate Forum for the 19th Congressional District SUNY New Paltz hosted a forum on Dec. 6, 2017, for Democratic candidates vying to challenge Rep. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, to represent the 19th Congressional District.

President Barack Obama has given Antonio Delgado his endorsement in the race to represent New York’s 19th district.

Delgado, a Democrat from Rhinebeck, is taking on incumbent Rep. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, in November.

Obama released endorsements for 81 people running for Congress on Wednesday including Delgado. In a statement, Obama said, “I’m proud to endorse such a wide and impressive array of Democratic candidates.

“I’m confident that, together, they’ll strengthen this country we love,” he said, “by restoring opportunity that’s broadly shared, repairing our alliances and standing in the world, and upholding our fundamental commitment to justice, fairness, responsibility and the rule of law.”

In response, Delgado said, “I am honored and truly humbled to receive former President Obama’s endorsement,” in the release.

“The values he has dedicated his life to promoting — commitment to service, hard work and ensuring equal rights for everyone — are the same values I am committed to promoting for the people of our region,” Delgado said. “I look forward to continuing to build on the momentum created by the grassroots support of our volunteers. It is when we all work together, as actively engaged citizens, that we can best improve our democracy.”

Delgado, 41, defeated six Democratic opponents in the June primary to take on Faso. He’s an attorney and was born in Schenectady, according to his website.

Faso, 65, is seeking a second two-year term.

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Jack Howland: jhowland@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4870, Twitter: @jhowl04