Today, Progressive Democrats of America (PDA) announced their endorsement of Kentucky State Representative Charles Booker for the U.S. Senate.

Until recently, Booker was a heavy underdog to win the Democratic nomination in next Tuesday’s primary. Former Air Force pilot Amy McGrath, a moderate Democrat, had been the heavy favorite to earn the opportunity to challenge the most powerful man in the U.S. Senate, Majority leader Mitch McConnell, in this fall’s general election. However, the Booker campaign has been surging as the candidate gained national attention for his response to the police killings of George Flord in Minneapolis and Brianna Taylor in Booker’s hometown of Louisville.

“We are seeing the emergence of a new political superstar,” says PDA’s Executive Director Alan Minsky. “It’s important to have great policy positions in normal times, and Charles has those; but what’s truly amazing is the leadership he has shown in the midst of a social crisis. Charles has been a true beacon of hope; explaining, with crystal clarity, how the progressive agenda provides a pathway to the more just and equitable society Americans want.

“Equally impressive, he hasn’t pulled any punches; explaining how unaccountable police violence against communities of color is a defining element of America’s endemic centuries-long structural racism; and that neither moderate Democrats nor Republicans ever challenge this status quo. That’s the type of candidate that can defeat the most powerful Senator of the 21st century this fall.

“We at PDA understand this is a challenging race,” continued Minsky. “Amy McGrath has raised more money this election cycle than any non-Presidential candidate in the entire country. McConnell is second. Charles Booker has something more valuable: a deep understanding of this historic moment and a firm commitment to the progressive policies necessary – to paraphrase a man born a while ago in Kentucky – so ‘that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.’

“Progressive Democrats of America are thrilled to endorse Charles Booker for Senate.”