The second-in-command of the Denver District Attorney’s office, Ryan Brackely, is endorsing Michael Dougherty in the Colorado attorney general’s race, Dougherty’s campaign says.

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Michael for his entire legal career and it is a true honor to endorse him to be our next attorney general of Colorado,” Brackley said in a statement. “As someone who has worked alongside Michael both in the attorney general’s office and in our roles as assistant district attorneys I can say with confidence that Michael is the most qualified person in this race and will lead the office with integrity and passion.”

Dougherty is a former assistant state attorney general who is now an assistant prosecutor in Jefferson County.

“Michael came to this state to make a difference in our criminal justice system, when he was asked to lead the Justice Review Project and later the criminal division for the AG’s office,” Brackley continued. “Not only did Michael’s work lead to the exoneration of an innocent man but his leadership was felt across the state as prosecutors came together to insure the right thing had been done. Michael continues to influence our state from his current role, through his actions in Jefferson and Gilpin counties to his testimony on Capitol Hill – Michael has made a continued effort to ensure that the right thing is done. We are extremely fortunate to have Michael in this race – he will be the attorney general our state needs.”

Dougherty also released a statement:

“Ryan and I have known each other since our days in the Manhattan DA’s office and he enjoys reminding me often that he got to Colorado before I did. Together we have worked on various issues relating to criminal justice reform and progressive policies to help Coloradans and protect our way of life here. Ryan has been an early supporter and continues to encourage me in this race – something which I cannot underscore the importance of. Our team continues to grow and I am very humbled to have the support of my peers from across the state.”

Dougherty is one of four Democrats in the primary, joining former University of Colorado law school dean Phil Weiser, Denver attorney Brad Levin, federal prosecutor Amy Padden and state Rep. Joe Salazar.