Alabama House Minority Leader, Rep. Craig Ford (D-Gadsden), announced on Friday (Nov. 6) that he is endorsing Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States.
“I listened to all the presidential candidates, and Martin O’Malley was the only one not just talking about creating jobs and improving education, but who has actually accomplished those things as a mayor and governor,” said Ford. “Gov. O’Malley is also the only candidate talking about increasing support for national service. I think serving your country is important. That’s why I served in the Alabama National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve. I know the military isn’t for everybody, but I believe that our country would be so much stronger if everybody had a little skin in the game. That’s why we need a president who will expand national service opportunities for young Americans.”
Gov. O’Malley said he was proud to have Ford’s endorsement.
“We are building a campaign to win, and I’m proud that we were first to submit our delegate slate in Alabama. Representative Ford has worked tirelessly to strengthen Alabama’s middle class, improve education and treat state employees fairly. I’m glad to have his support.”
Ford said his decision to support O’Malley was heavily influenced by the governor’s record of success during his time as mayor of Baltimore and governor of Maryland.
As mayor of Baltimore, O’Malley oversaw a massive reduction in crime. His leadership also led to major improvements in education and the lowest property taxes in 30 years, while also achieving a budget surplus for the first time in decades.
During O’Malley’s tenure as governor, Maryland recovered 100 percent of the jobs lost during the recession and was recognized as having the best public schools in America for five years in a row.
“I want a president who’s going to leave America in better shape than when they got there,” said Ford. “Martin O’Malley did that as mayor of Baltimore, he did it as governor of Maryland, and I know he will do it again as President of the United States.”