Obama endorses Emanuel re-election bid in new radio ad

CHICAGO (AP) - President Barack Obama is helping friend and former chief of staff Rahm Emanuel in his bid to win a second term as Chicago mayor.

Emanuel's campaign said Sunday that Obama will endorse the mayor in a 60-second radio ad to begin airing on Monday.

Campaign spokesman Steve Mayberry says the president praises Emanuel's record, including lengthening the school day and increasing the city's minimum wage.

Obama says that Emanuel "loves our city, and he believes every child in every neighborhood should have a fair shot at success."

Emanuel has been sharply criticized for closing dozens of neighborhood schools, a decision he defended during a weekend candidate forum.

He is being challenged in the Feb. 24 election by several candidates, including Cook County Commissioner Jesus Garcia and Alderman Bob Fioretti.