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Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland announced his endorsement of New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton Friday and plans to join the campaign Saturday at the Iowa Democratic Party's Jefferson Jackson Dinner in Des Moines.

“These serious times call for a leader with Hillary Clinton’s strength and experience,” Strickland said in a prepared statement. “Hillary has what it takes to win Ohio and take back the White House in 2008. Her commitment to rebuilding the middle class and expanding opportunity for all Americans is exactly what this country needs.”

Strickland was elected governor in 2006 in a landslide victory on the strength of his Turnaround Ohio Plan, which focuses on the unbreakable link between economic growth and educational achievement.

“I am truly honored to have Governor Strickland’s support,” Clinton said. “He has united Ohioans to restore integrity and accountability to state government and move Ohio forward.”

Strickland began his career as a Methodist minister, psychologist and professor, before being first elected to Congress in 1992. In the House, he helped author the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a federal initiative that now provides health insurance to millions of low-income children, and fought to ensure that our troops have the life-saving armor and equipment they need.

Although the Clinton campaign has no plans for a public pre-rally, there are several other events, including a post-party, planned.