Rep. Donald Payne jumps ship from Clinton campaign to Obama.

Also Oregon Rep. Peter DeFazio announces support for Obama.

Payne’s former endorsement of Clinton:

“These serious times call for a leader with Hillary Clinton’s ability to tackle our biggest challenges from her first day in office,” Rep. Payne said. “Her 35-year record fighting for children and families demonstrates the kind of change she will deliver as President. Having worked closely with Hillary in the White House and in the Senate, I can personally attest to her effectiveness and commitment to the issues facing our community.”

Current endorsement of Obama:

“After careful consideration, I have reached the conclusion that Barack Obama can best bring about the change that our country so desperately wants and needs,” Payne told The Star-Ledger for today’s editions. It was “one of the most difficult decisions I have made,” Payne said. “I’ve really been mulling it over for quite a while.”

“At this particular time we need to really unite behind one candidate,” Payne said. “It’s time now for us to pull our party together. The quicker it’s over, the better we’ll be able to bring all of our forces together.”