Former Democratic National Committee chairman Paul Kirk endorsed Bernie Sanders for president on Thursday evening in New Hampshire, making him one of the Vermont senator’s most senior supporters.
“Among all the presidential candidates, only Bernie Sanders is telling that truth,” Kirk said during a press conference on Thursday night. “For his outspoken and courageous leadership, his candid and consistent pledge of allegiance to that All-American ideal, I am proud to be here to join this ‘untiring effort’; and, as a former Chairman of the National Democratic Party, to endorse Bernie Sanders for our Party’s nomination for president of the United States of America.”
In his endorsement of Sanders, Kirk spoke passionately of the candidate’s commitment to campaign finance reform, fairer taxes, job growth and income equality. Prior to serving as DNC chair from 1985-89, the senator served as chief of staff for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, whose seat he filled on a temporary basis after Kennedy’s death. Kirk is the 16th super delegate to support Sanders in the primary, whereas Hillary Clinton has at least 359.
“Sen. Kirk is right when he states that our democracy is being undermined by a corrupt campaign finance system,” Sanders said in a statement. “I very much appreciate the support from Sen. Kirk,” said Sanders. He praised Kirk’s “exemplary career as a public servant fighting on behalf of working families in our country” and leadership of the Democratic Party.
Sanders has taken the lead over Clinton in both Iowa and New Hampshire.
