Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) on Tuesday endorsed his colleague Sen. Bernie Sanders Bernie SandersButtigieg stands in as Pence for Harris's debate practice Bernie Sanders warns of 'nightmare scenario' if Trump refuses election results Harris joins women's voter mobilization event also featuring Pelosi, Gloria Steinem, Jane Fonda MORE (I-Vt.) for president, hours after Sanders announced his candidacy.

“We have a strong field of candidates, and Bernie’s entry makes the field even stronger," Leahy said in a statement. "Bernie and I had a great talk today. I’m proud to support my fellow Vermonter, a proven leader with a strong message.”

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“Bernie Sanders is a welcome voice in this campaign," Welch said in a statement. "He has a proven, powerful, and compelling message of economic fairness and environmental justice that will resonate across America. I will support my friend and fellow Vermonter for president in 2020.”