President Barack Obama will join Gov. Jon Corzine for a rally at Rutgers University in New Brunswick on July 16th, according to an email message the governor sent to supporters this morning.

"President Obama isn't just a close friend of mine; he's a great friend to our state," wrote the governor. "After eight long years, we finally have a partner in Washington who shares our values and vision for a more progressive New Jersey.

"Together, we are creating green jobs, providing universal access to healthcare for kids, protecting the most vulnerable among us, and ensuring all our children have access to a quality education -- regardless of where they live."

This is not the first time the governor, down by double digits in most polls, has turned to a top tier presence in this campaign cycle. Vice President Joe Biden joined Corzine for his general election launch on June 2nd.

But this is Obama's first appearance in a year in which Democrats hope to maintain control of two states where governerships are at stake: Virginia and New Jersey.

"I'm proud of the great progress that Barack Obama and I have already have made," Corzine said. "But we still have more to do, and with a partner in Washington who shares our values and priorities, I'm confident in what we can accomplish in the next four years. I'm honored that President Obama will be on hand in New Jersey to recognize the important work we're doing, and I hope you will join us."

The news obviously failed to impress Corzine's chief rival, GOP gubernatorial candidate Chris Christie.

"This race isn't about President Obama," said Christie campaign manager Bill Stepien. "It is about the issues that face New Jersey and Jon Corzine's record - higher taxes, staggering job losses and lower achievement in our schools. No obligatory endorsement from the President can change Corzine's subpar record."