Fifth congressional Democrat backs Bloomberg in 2020 race

Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.) on Monday became the fifth member of Congress to endorse former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s 2020 presidential campaign.  

The San Diego–area Democrat will also serve as Bloomberg’s national chairman for climate, energy and environment, the campaign said.

Peters, the No. 2 Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Energy Subcommittee, is the former mayor’s second endorsement from a member of California’s congressional delegation, following Rep. Harley Rouda (D). 

“If we’re going to make real headway on fighting the clear and present threat of climate change and addressing our country’s infrastructure needs, we need a president who prioritizes them and will put political factions aside to get things done. That is why I am endorsing Mike Bloomberg for president,” Peters said in a statement.

“Mike understands the power of activating cities, businesses and people, and he has a record of delivering real solutions. His unwavering commitment to climate and infrastructure policy gives me hope for the next generation.”

Peters is vice chairman of the New Democrats, a pro-business faction that met with Bloomberg during a recent visit to Capitol Hill, and his chief of staff, MaryAnne Pintar, serves as Bloomberg’s California regional political director, Politico noted.

“Congressman Peters has been a strong leader in Washington on issues that matter in this election, like preventing gun violence, fighting the climate crisis, protecting the environment, and standing up for our veterans — and he has delivered results for his constituents,” Bloomberg said in the announcement. “I’m honored to have his support and I’m looking forward to working with him to bring people together, defeat Donald Trump, and get our country moving forward again.”