Former N.Y. Gov. Pataki Endorses Marco Rubio For President

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) - Former New York Gov. George Pataki endorsed Florida Sen. Marco Rubio's bid for the White House Tuesday morning.

Speaking to FOX News, Pataki said Rubio is the one candidate in either party with the ability to bring the American people together.

"Hillary Clinton is always dividing us for her benefit. Donald Trump is dividing us so he gets the benefit,'' he said. "Marco Rubio is going to bring us together, and make us understand we are all Americans with a common future.''

The freshman senator from Florida is trailing in Iowa preference polls behind GOP rivals Ted Cruz and Donald Trump, but he has received more support than either candidate from members of the House and Senate.

"We're pleased to have Governor George Pataki join our team," said Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, chair of Rubio's New York campaign. "Governor Pataki served the people of New York honorably for 12 years and led us during our most difficult time following the September 11th attacks.  He is held in high regard by the people of New York and I look forward to working with him to ensure Marco Rubio wins the primary on April 19th."

Pataki ran for president as well but suspended his campaign in December.

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