Gephardt backs Clinton for president

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- Former House Democratic leader Dick Gephardt, who twice ran unsuccessfully for president, has endorsed Hillary Clinton's presidential bid.

Clinton's campaign said Thursday that Gephardt will serve an an economic adviser and a co-chairman of her campaign.

Gephardt, who served as a St. Louis congressman from 1977-2005, sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988 and 2004. In a Clinton campaign release, Gephardt said "she's got the strength and experience to deliver the kind of change America wants."

Gephardt served as House majority leader from 1989-1995 and, after Democrats lost power, as the minority leader from 1995 until he stepped down from the position after the 2002 elections.