http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/gop-primaries/270580-trump-picks-up-first-congressional-endorsementFebruary 24, 2016, 11:00 am
Trump picks up first congressional endorsement
By Mark Hensch
GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump has secured his first formal endorsement from a member of Congress.
Rep. Chris Collins (R-N.Y.) announced Wednesday that he is backing Trump, according to The Buffalo News.
“Donald Trump has clearly demonstrated that he has both the guts and the fortitude to return our nation’s jobs stolen by China, take on our enemies like ISIS, Iran, North Korea and Russia, and, most importantly, reestablish the opportunity for our children and grandchildren to attain the American Dream,” Collins said in a statement.
“That’s why I am proud to endorse him as the next president of the United States. We need a president willing to make the tough decisions to restore our country to greatness. I believe that Donald Trump is the man for the job, and I am proud to provide him with my support.”
Collins also argued that Trump’s extensive business background makes him the most qualified contender for the Oval Office.
“If we want to get our nation’s economy growing again and deal with the daunting financial fiscal issues threatening America’s future, it’s time to say 'no' to professional politicians and 'yes' to someone who has created jobs and grown a business,” he said.
“The results of Barack Obama’s failed presidency has been devastating,” Collins continued. “The last thing we need is a third Obama term, while we would get with either [Democratic presidential front-runner] Hillary Clinton or [Sen.] Bernie Sanders [I-Vt.].
“America has the potential to once again be the land of opportunity. Donald Trump understands the importance of American exceptionalism and has the unique qualifications to make America great again.”
Collins previously supported former Gov. Jeb Bush (R-Fla.), who suspended his own White House run after an underwhelming fourth-place finish in last weekend’s GOP presidential primary in South Carolina.
Trump, meanwhile, won his third consecutive early voting contest late Tuesday evening with a victory in Nevada.