Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James announced Sunday his endorsement of Hillary Clinton for president.
“When I think about the kinds of policies and ideas the kids in my foundation need from our government, the choice is clear: That candidate is Hillary Clinton,” he writes in an op-ed for Business Insiders.
“Two years ago, I told you I was coming home to Northeast Ohio — where I was born and raised. When I came back, I had two missions,” he says. The first mission was his “on-the-court mission” to help win a championship for Northeast Ohio. The second mission hits even closer to home: his kids. That’s where his support for Clinton comes in.
“I am determined to make sure my kids in Akron have what they need to become their best selves,” James writes. “Opportunities, a support system, and a safety net for kids in poverty or kids in single-parent households shouldn’t be limited to those lucky enough to be blessed with athletic talent.”
When James entered the NBA, he founded the LeBron James Family Foundation, which gives kids in Akron the resources and opportunities they need to stay in school and reach their dreams through education.
He sees himself as being fortunate enough to have had support and mentors around him who kept him on the right path. That’s what we’re giving these kids through my foundation. And when someone believes in you, that changes everything.
“When I look at this year’s presidential race, it’s clear which candidate believes the same thing. Only one person running truly understands the struggles of an Akron child born into poverty,” James writes. “I support Hillary because she will build on the legacy of my good friend, President Barack Obama. I believe in what President Obama has done for our country and support her commitment to continuing that legacy.
“Like my foundation, Hillary has always been a champion for children and their futures. For over 40 years, she’s been working to improve public schools, expand access to health care, support children’s hospitals, and so much more.
“She wants to make sure kids have access to a good education, no matter what zip code they live in. She’ll rebuild schools that are falling apart and put more money into computer science. She’ll make sure teachers are paid what they deserve so they can give everything to their students.
“She also has plans to make college a reality for more people in America, especially for those who can’t afford it. My kids in Akron are proof of the hope and motivation that comes from knowing college can be in their future, no matter what obstacles they might be facing.”
James also addresses violence in the African-American community. “I don’t know everything it will take finally to end the violence. But I do know we need a president who brings us together and keeps us unified. Policies and ideas that divide us more are not the solution. We must all stand together — no matter where we are from or the color of our skin. And Hillary is running on the message of hope and unity that we need.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done in Akron, Northeast Ohio, and all across our great country. We need a president who understands our community and will build on the legacy of President Obama. So let’s register to vote, show up to the polls, and vote for Hillary Clinton.”