Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) on Wednesday endorsed Joe Biden’s White House bid, becoming the latest former 2020 hopeful to back the former vice president.
“Americans are asking two questions in this election: Who can beat Donald Trump, and who can get anything done? That candidate is former Vice President Joe Biden, and I am proud to endorse him for President of the United States,” the Colorado Democrat said in a statement.
Bennet cited Biden’s experience in the Senate and as vice president, which he said situates him particularly well to tackle the coronavirus.
“Joe is a proven leader who can bring Americans together and show that our best days are still ahead. His vast experience, temperament, and decency stand in stark contrast to those of Donald Trump, especially in these challenging times,” Bennet said.
“In the midst of a public health crisis and economic downturn, now more than ever we need an experienced leader to protect and guide our country,” he said.
The endorsement comes hours after Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Biden’s sole remaining primary challenger, dropped out of the race, leaving the former vice president as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee.
Biden has racked up support with a winning spree in March across several primaries and caucuses. Among those who have backed his campaign are a number of former 2020 contenders, including Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), former South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg and more.
Bennet ended his long shot White House bid in February amid languishing poll numbers and weak finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire.