CLEVELAND, Ohio - Former Vice President Joe Biden announced Tuesday his endorsement for Democrat Richard Cordray in the Ohio governor's race in the first show of support from former President Barack Obama's administration.

Cordray is closely linked to the previous president, serving as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau under Obama. Many of Cordray's initial campaign staff members were closely linked to Biden, fueling speculation an endorsement was imminent.

"Rich was tough, and he delivered, ultimately getting $12 billion returned to 30 million Americans," Biden said in a statement. "As Governor, Rich will make sure every kid in Ohio has a chance to get a good education, he'll protect Medicaid expansion, and he'll make sure that economic opportunity and good jobs are available across Ohio. He will be an advocate for working families, and that is why I'm looking forward to helping him win."

The endorsement could be the first of many to come from the Obama administration -- including Obama himself, who won Ohio twice. A spokesman for Cordray declined to comment on if an endorsement from Obama was forthcoming.

Biden's announcement comes just days after Republican President Donald Trump endorsed Cordray's opponent, Attorney General Mike DeWine, in the race. Biden is very popular among Democrats and should boost fundraising for Cordray, which he'll need to counter DeWine's ability to raise money.

Biden, who is often discussed as a potential presidential candidate in 2020, is just the latest national figure to show a keen interest in the election between Cordray and DeWine. Republicans see Ohio as key to holding control over the national political landscape while Democrats view the Buckeye State as their way to reconnect with white, blue-collar voters.