Dana Ferguson

dferguson@argusleader.com

Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton got a valuable South Dakota endorsement Tuesday night.

Former U.S. Sen. Tom Daschle endorsed Clinton in a statement, saying the former secretary of state has a record of success that makes her the best candidate for president.

“Secretary Clinton has dedicated her life to fighting for the right of every American family to find opportunity, success and security,” Daschle said. “She has been an unwavering voice for the underprivileged. Her leadership has been tested and is resolute both at home and abroad. I fully endorse Hillary Clinton’s campaign for President because she has the personal strength and conviction to defend the values that South Dakotans and Americans care about most.”

Daschle said he will work with Clinton's campaign ahead of the June 7 primary.

The Clinton campaign has boosted its efforts in the Mount Rushmore State weeks before the Democratic primary. Most recently, campaign spokespeople announced Tuesday that Wendy Davis, a former Texas state senator and abortion rights advocate, will stump for Clinton in Sioux Falls on Thursday as part of the local office's opening ceremony.

Last week, former President Bill Clinton held an organizing event and fundraising gala in Sioux Falls to help build support for his wife.

Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders has also opened a Sioux Falls office and held a trio of events across the state earlier this month.

Follow Dana Ferguson on Twitter @bydanaferguson

MORE: Against Trump, could Clinton turn South Dakota blue?

Can Sanders win historically populist South Dakota?

Bill Clinton: Build a bridge, not a wall