The congressional campaign of Dan Roberti rolled out a big-name endorsement on the eve of Tuesday’s three-way Democratic primary: Bill Clinton.
Endorsements are at their most valuable when they can be incorporated into advertising, so the value of an 11th-hour testimonial, even from the former president, may be minimal. But the Roberti campaign will take it, saying it will be publicized in calls and through social media.
“We’re pleased to get his endorsement at any hour,” said Erik Williams, the manager of Roberti’s campaign.
Roberti, 30, of Kent, is a first-time candidate for public office with an obvious in with Clinton. As a college student at Loyola in New Orleans, Robert volunteered on Katrina relief efforts, which introduced him to Clinton’s campaign adviser, James Carville.
Carville recorded an endorsement video last week.
Roberti is competing with House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan of Meriden and former state Rep. Elizabeth Esty of Cheshire for the nomination.