Obama endorses David Crowley in Wisconsin governor's race

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Former President Barack Obama endorsed Democratic nominee David Crowley for Wisconsin governor in a video released Thursday, Oct. 8, less than four weeks before the Nov. 3 election.

"As the leader of Wisconsin's largest county, he created jobs and balanced the budget," Obama said in the video, referring to Crowley's role as Milwaukee County executive. "There is nobody better to lead Wisconsin forward. So, vote David Crowley for governor."

Crowley shared the video on social media where he wrote, "I am deeply honored to have your support in this race to be Wisconsin's next Governor." He also issued a Thursday press release where he further expressed his appreciation for the endorsement.

"Thanks to President Obama, millions of Americans were able to get healthcare, millions found jobs, and now he’s passed the baton to a new generation of leaders like myself who want to make Wisconsin and our country the best place to call home. I know with President Obama’s support, we can win this election and move Wisconsin forward.” - David Crowley

Anthony Chergosky, a UW-La Crosse political science associate professor, said the endorsement is key in the final weeks of the governor's race.

“President Obama remains extremely popular within the Democratic Party, a very important task that David Crowley has ahead of him is motivating the members of his party to go vote,” Chergosky said.

Crowley faces Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in the general gubernatorial election, who is endorsed by President Donald Trump. The Tiffany campaign shared the following statement with CBS 58.

“Barack Obama is endorsing a candidate who has presided over the largest deficit of any county in Wisconsin, raised taxes every year, and botched Milwaukee County’s health care contract. Now national Democrats are trying to rescue David Crowley’s establishment campaign, but no endorsement can rewrite his failed record,” said the Tiffany campaign.

“Because a sitting President is always the unquestioned sitting leader of their party, it means that a sitting president, and in this case, Donald Trump, is going to have a real impact on the election,” Chergosky said.

Chergosky said it will be notable if either President Trump or Obama campaigns with their respective candidates.

“We are entering a crucial stage of this campaign where the candidates are starting to make their closing arguments to voters, they are searching for the last few undecided voters, and they are aiming to excite and mobilize their members of their party.” Chergosky said.