Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick has endorsed Democrat Barack Obama for president. He made the leap early, and it's a little surprising given that Patrick worked for the Clinton Administration.

Obviously, Patrick is a plum catch for any politician running for office. A good word from him can mean a lot. Patrick's decision gives Obama access to the Massachusetts political treasure chest and gives him a publicity boost for the primaries in New Hampshire. It also might boost Obama's cred among African American voters. Obama is behind Clinton in the polls, so, to spin a phrase from Stephen Colbert, he could use a "Patrick Bump."

The Globe mentions that there will be a rally next week--because, if there's one thing Deval Patrick loves, it's a party.