Bloomberg to spend $100 million to help Biden in Florida

WASHINGTON — Former New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg is committing at least $100 million to help Joe Biden’s presidential campaign in the crucial battleground state of Florida.

Bloomberg’s late-stage infusion of cash reflects Democrats’ concerns about the tight race in a state that is a priority for President Trump. A victory for Biden in Florida, the largest of the perennial battleground states, would significantly complicate Trump’s path to reaching the 270 electoral college votes needed to secure a second term.

The billionaire Bloomberg launched his own campaign for the Democratic nomination late last year. Despite spending $1 billion, Bloomberg struggled and dropped out in March, quickly endorsing Biden.

Bloomberg’s new spending is intended to boost the former vice president before the start of early voting in Florida, which begins Sept. 24.

A Bloomberg advisor said much of the money would go to television and digital advertising.