Congressman Patrick Murphy received an early endorsement Monday morning, the first day of his campaign for U.S. Senate.
U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch, who represents Florida’s 21st Congressional District, released a statement of support for the Jupiter Democrat, who said Sunday evening he is seeking Marco Rubio’s Senate seat. Rubio will vacate it if he chooses to run for president in 2016.
“I am proud to endorse my friend, colleague, and fellow Democrat Patrick Murphy for the United States Senate,” Deutch said.
“Patrick will fight for the same things in the U.S. Senate that we have fought for together in the U.S. House, like protecting Social Security and Medicare, raising wages for hardworking Americans, and fighting for a safer and cleaner environment.
“Patrick always puts the needs of Florida families, seniors, and small businesses first, and that’s why I plan on doing whatever I can to help him win in 2016.”
Although Rubio has not yet announced a presidential campaign, he told reporters recently he would not seek re-election to the Senate if he does. Florida law prohibits candidates from seeking two offices simultaneously on the same ballot.