Former U.S. Senator Bob Graham on Monday morning announced he's backing U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy (D—Jupiter) in his U.S. Senate bid.
Murphy's running for the seat being vacated by failed presidential hopeful Marco Rubio, and faces a formidable primary challenge from U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson (D—Orlando).
In a conference call to reporters Monday, Graham praised Murphy on what he said were pro-middle class and pro-environment positions as well as his service on the House Intelligence Community.
“To be a United States Senator requires a number of talents, one of which is to be an effective ambassador for your state in Washington, particularly a state that has as diverse a population, economy, range of interests, international relationships as does Florida," he said. "That ambassadorial role is extremely important. I'm confident that Patrick, with his knowledge, energy and his demeanor will be a very effective representative for our interests in Washington.”
Murphy, of course said he was "humbled" by the endorsement, calling Graham "one of the last statesmen."
“You've been such a leader and dedicated your life to service not only in elected office but now post election you continue to serve our state and set a great example for folks like me trying to get more involved in public office,” Murphy said.
If Murphy manages to best Grayson in the August primary (the latter has consistently done better than Murphy in the polls), his name could appear on the November ballot beneath Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.
Graham said that should prove beneficial for Murphy.
“I think the people of Florida are going to want at this time in American history especially, to have a leader in whom they have confidence based on demonstrated performance and experience," Graham said. "And I think that person is going to be Secretary Hillary Clinton. So her strength of appeal will add to Patrick and vice-versa. Having a man like Patrick on the ballot will engender enthusiasm in the state will be beneficial to the presidential candidate.”
Murphy said the GOP is in quite a bind given Trump's popularity among Republicans, which could result in a fractured party and “dramatic down-ballot effects.”
"If they do attempt to box him out, I think that creates an even bigger worry for them,” he said.
This article appears in Mar 17-23, 2016.