Release: Attorney General candidate Cordray returns from Denver with Obama endorsement

(Denver)--While Ohio's delegates to the Democratic National Convention will return home with campaign buttons, tee-shirts, and lots of energy, their party's nominee for Attorney General is bringing with him a real prize: a personal endorsement of his candidacy by Barack Obama.

For an audio clip, go to: http://www.cordrayforohio.com/audio_attorney_general_candida/index.html

The Presidential candidate made the following statement on Cordray's behalf:

"Richard Cordray was the first statewide elected official in Ohio to endorse my candidacy. It is my pleasure to now endorse Rich as Ohio's next Attorney General.

"I want exceptional public servants like Rich in Attorneys General offices throughout the country who will partner with the Department of Justice and local law enforcement to keep our communities safe. In particular, I expect Rich to continue to fight against predatory lending practices and other financial scams that stack the deck against hardworking families, as he has as Ohio's Treasurer. I also
recognize that the people of Ohio want, and deserve, an Attorney General who will defend the public interest with integrity and restore their trust in that office.

"Rich Cordray will be that kind of Attorney General. Throughout his career as Ohio's first State Solicitor, law professor and private attorney, in which he briefed and argued numerous cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, Rich has demonstrated the judgment, talent, and determination required of Ohio's chief law enforcement officer.

"Most importantly, Treasurer Cordray's long record of public service as both a legislator and a county and statewide executive shows a willingness and ability to work across party lines and bring people together to find practical solutions to Ohio's most pressing problems. This is exactly the kind of common sense problem-solving that I intend to bring to Washington and that we need across the country if we are going to see the real change my campaign seeks.

"Rich Cordray is a dedicated and effective public servant, a top-flight legal mind, and a true son of Ohio who is committed to bettering the future of his native state.

"That is why I proudly endorse Rich Cordray's candidacy for Attorney General of Ohio, and look forward to joining him on the campaign trail across Ohio in the months to come."

Cordray said: "Barack Obama's personal endorsement is exceptionally meaningful to me. I intend to campaign hard for him throughout the state, and I expect his support will energize my volunteers and supporters as well. His words of support humble me and are an honor I will work hard to maintain."

The traditional Labor Day campaign season will kick off for Cordray in Cleveland this weekend, where he will throw out the opening pitch at the Indians' home game on Sunday afternoon, and, with Lou Stokes, will serve as Grand Marshall of the 11th Congressional District's Annual Labor Day Parade.

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