At-Large City Councillor Michael Flaherty has endorsed Republican Charlie Baker, he told the Reporter.

“I’ve given this race a lot of thought and consideration and I know and like both candidates,” Flaherty said. “But I think on important issues facing Boston, including, crime and violence, need to improve our schools, fiscal responsibility, government reform, and engaging communities of color, I think Charlie is the best choice for the city and the state.”

Flaherty introduced Baker and his running mate Karyn Polito at a Sunday afternoon fundraiser at the Banshee pub on Dorchester Avenue–the same spot as a Vice President Joe Biden fundraiser for Martha Coakley taking place on Wednesday evening.

“I know he’s worked extremely hard in Boston this time around,” Flaherty said, referring to Baker’s failed 2010 gubernatorial run. “I don’t think he’s missed a parade or little league openings or summer block party in Boston.”

Flaherty said he goes way back with both candidates–he and Polito are graduates of Boston College, and that he admires the inroads Baker has made with the city’s Vietnamese, Latino, and Chinese communities.

Members of the city council have largely stayed out of the gubernatorial race as Mayor Marty Walsh has pushed hard for Democrat Martha Coakley.