Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden on Tuesday endorsed two Democrats seeking second terms to battleground state Senate districts in New York. 

Biden, the former vice president, backed Democrats Kevin Thomas and Jim Gaughran in their re-election bids. Both lawmakers flipped a pair of state Senate districts on Long Island two years ago, helping the conference gain control of the chamber for the first time in a decade. 

Biden's running mate on the national ticket, California Sen. Kamala Harris, also endorsed the incumbents.

“I am elated, honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris,” Thomas said in a statement.

“Vice President Biden and Senator Kamala Harris understand what it takes to lead, and are committed to standing up for our nation’s values of justice, equality, and opportunity for all. I am grateful for their support, and look forward to fighting alongside them on behalf of Long Island families.” 

Republicans hope to gain seats back lost in 2018 with races in the Hudson Valley and Long Island this November. 

“Long Island communities are being failed by Washington’s disastrous policies and their failed COVID-19 response, and it is imperative that New York maintain a Democratic State Senate to protect New Yorkers," Gaughran said.

"I am running to help Long Islanders move past the COVID-19 pandemic, protect our environment, and keep our communities safe from senseless gun violence. With Joe Biden in the White House, our country will be able to move past the disastrous federal COVID-19 response that failed our nation and left more than 210,000 Americans dead.”