Senate candidate Mike Broihier has been endorsed by Andrew Yang, the entrepreneur who ran for the presidency earlier this year. As part of the endorsement, Broihier also received the endorsement of Humanity Forward, the organization begun by Yang to back political candidates who support Universal Basic Income.
In a statement from the Broihier campaign, Yang noted that Broihier’s candidacy is a “continuation of the movement” that Yang started as a presidential candidate. He also pointed out that some of the Yang staff now works on Broihier’s campaign.
From the press release:
This marks a significant step for Yang, as an endorsement in a competitive race against a national Democratic establishment-backed (DSCC-endorsed) candidate. It is also Yang and Humanity Forward’s first endorsement in a US Senate election.
“My family and I were inspired by the movement Andrew built,” said Lt. Col. Broihier. “Andrew’s patience, intellect, sense of humor, and deep passion for helping people brought UBI to the forefront of American politics at a critical moment in the history of this country” he said.
“We’re honored to have the support of Andrew and his movement in the crucial battle to defeat Mitch McConnell once and for all,” said Broihier.
Yang’s reasons for endorsing Broihier
More from the press release:
Yang said that both the political and economic situations in Kentucky, particularly amidst the COVID-19 crisis, meant that he could stay silent no longer, leading to his intervention in the Senate primary against an establishment-backed candidate to show his support for Broihier.
“Nearly half of Kentucky children live in low-income households,” Yang said. “The majority of Kentucky residents are living paycheck to paycheck. For many, the paychecks have stopped coming altogether. Kentucky needs a fighter like Mike,” he said.
Yang, Humanity Forward, and Mike Broihier for Senate intend to work hand-in-hand to deliver Mike through the June 23rd primary in Kentucky and to defeat Mitch McConnell in the fall, through fundraising, communications work, and organizing work. This endorsement also marks the first direct challenge from Yang to a major Republican figure since his run to unseat President Trump – this time directing his resources at Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
Yang made clear his decision was as much about Broihier’s potential strengths as a general election candidate as they were about his support for UBI.
“I’m tired of Mitch McConnell blocking meaningful action in Washington,” he said. “Mitch is the king of the swamp. Mike is a farmer, educator, former small-town newspaper editor, and a former Marine officer. Who would you vote for?”
Broihier is running against Rep. Charles Booker and Lt. Col. Amy McGrath for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Mitch McConnell.
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