Assemblyman Dan Benson (D-14), Hamilton, whose district straddles parts of Middlesex and Mercer counties, this morning formally endorsed state Sen. Barbara Buono (D-18) for governor.

"Throughout my tenure in public service, as Hamilton councilman, as a Mercer County Freeholder and now as an Assemblyman - I've come across few elected officials with the personal strength and independence of Senator Buono," Benson said. "Today, I am endorsing her candidacy for Governor and I am asking Democratic leaders and most importantly voters across New Jersey to join me in supporting her as our party's nominee for governor."