Rogers throws his weight behind Clinton

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 | 7:16 a.m.

University system Chancellor Jim Rogers is again stepping into the political realm, endorsing Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., in her run for the presidency.

In turn, the campaign has appointed Rogers co-chairman for Clinton's Nevada campaign, with Clark County Commission Chairman Rory Reid.

Rogers, a friend of the Clintons, said the senator best clicked with his educational views. Like Rogers, Hillary and Bill Clinton taught law, and the chancellor has donated $1 million to the Clinton library.

"I think they are very bright people who are very progressive," said Rogers, who has yet to donate to the campaign.

Owner of a string of television stations across the West, Rogers and his wife, Beverly, have given generously to higher education and politics. He has also donated more than $10,000 to New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's presidential campaign and $10,000 to the Nevada State Democratic Party in May.

The chancellor switched his party affiliation from Republican to independent in 2005 while flirting with a possible run for governor.

Rogers' often unilateral political involvement has gotten him in hot water with the Board of Regents, but this time, he is joined by two of his bosses. Regents Cedric Crear and Thalia Dondero announced they were endorsing Clinton on Monday.