Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) endorsed Chicago Urban League President Cheryle Robinson Jackson (D) Tuesday in her bid for U.S. Senate, according to a news release from Jackson’s campaign. Jackson and state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias are both running in the 2010 Democratic primary.

“Cheryle Robinson Jackson is exactly who Illinois needs in the U.S. Senate,— Rush said. “Like many of us, she worked her way up from humble beginnings to become a force for change and progress for everyday people. She understands from personal experience how important quality health care, education, and access to good jobs and opportunities are to Illinois families. Cheryle is an antidote for the greed of the banks and brokers who left Americans holding the bag.—

Rush represents the district with the highest percent of African-Americans in the country, further signifying that the February 2010 primary could fall along racial lines in the Chicago area. The majority of national and local Democrats have indicated that they are backing Giannoulias in his bid, including Democratic Illinois Reps. Bill Foster, Mike Quigley and Phil Hare.

The seat, once held by President Barack Obama, is currently held by appointed Sen. Roland Burris (D), who has decided not to seek a full term next year. Rep. Mark Kirk is among the Republicans running for the seat.