Bernie Sanders endorses Andrew Gillum in Florida Democratic gubernatorial election

Senator Bernie Sanders announced Wednesday morning that he is backing Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum in the Democratic race for governor in Florida.

I’m proud to endorse Tallahassee Mayor @AndrewGillum in his race for governor of Florida.

— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) August 1, 2018

“As governor, @AndrewGillum will work to provide health care for all through a Medicare-for-All program, raise the minimum wage, invest in sustainable energy, improve education, make sure the wealthiest corporations pay their fair share of taxes, and be welcoming to immigrants,” the Vermont Independent tweeted.

“Andrew has never backed down from a fight, including beating the NRA and standing up against xenophobic politicians,”Sanders continued. “@AndrewGillum will set a new course for Florida – a governor who represents all the people and not just powerful special interests.”

The endorsement comes a week after vote-by-mail ballots have gone out to registered Democrats, with Election Day now just 27 days away.

“As Governor, I promise to get up every single day ready to fight for a state that puts working people first; that makes affordable health care a right for every Floridian; and a state that is powered by its people. I’m proud to have his support,” Gillum responded.

Gillum is engaged in a five-way fight for the nomination, and most polls indicate he is trailing behind former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham and South Florida businessmen Jeff Greene and Philip Levine.

Along with Winter Haven businessman Chris King, Gillum has run on a progressive platform that has won him the backing of prominent financial contributors like Tom Steyer, who has committed organizers to Florida to boost his campaign, and  progressive political funder George Soros.