Gov. Andrew Cuomo is endorsing Rep. Charles Rangel in his re-election bid, he told Liz Benjamin in an exclusive interview set to air on Capital Tonight.

“I’ve worked with Congressman Rangel when I was in Washington,” Cuomo told Liz. ”He has seniority. He knows the system. He’s been good with bringing things back to the state of New York, which is a major part of what the Congress does.”

Cuomo, who is also endorsing Hakeem Jeffries and Nydia Velazquez, repeatedly touted Rangel’s experience in Washington and ability to deliver for his Harlem district.

“I think he is best suited not just for the district but for his state,” Cuomo said. ”His seniority is a major asset for this state.”

As for Rangel leaving in the middle of his term — the longtime Democratic representative has a history of back trouble —  Cuomo dismissed those concerns. If he were to leave, the governor could lose his newly minted state Democratic co-chairman Keith Wright.

“I take him at his word and I also know him — he loves what he is doing,” Cuomo said. “He loves to serve and I believe he is going to continue to do it.”

The full interview airs tonight at 8 and 11:30 on Capital Tonight.

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