President Barack Obama today announced his first wave of endorsements for the 2020 election cycle, including U.S. Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-7) in his bid for re-election. Malinowski served as Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor in the Obama Administration.

“I’m proud to endorse this diverse and hopeful collection of thoughtful, empathetic, and highly qualified Democrats,” said President Obama. “Together, these candidates will help us redeem our country’s promise by sticking up for working class people, restoring fairness and opportunity to our system, and fighting for the good of all Americans — not just those at the top. They make me optimistic not just about our party’s chances in November, but about our country’s future long after that. So if you’re in one of their districts or states, make sure you vote for them this fall. And if you can, vote early — by mail or in person.”

“It was my great honor to serve with President Obama, who exemplifies the great American values of civility, integrity, and honesty,” said Malinowski. “These principles guided us as we stood up to dictators around the globe and fought for democracy and equality for people everywhere. These same principles guide me every day as I stand up for the people of the 7th District in Congress.”

While serving in the Obama Administration Malinowski said he oversaw America’s efforts to promote democracy around the world, to defend the human rights of women and LGBTQ people, and to root out global corruption. He oversaw the implementation of the Magnitsky Act, which punished officials in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime for human rights abuses and corruption, as well as human rights sanctions against Iran