A day after announcing his retirement, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid has endorsed Charles Schumer to replace him in the role.

It comes as Democrats think they have a legitimate chance at retaking the Senate next year, setting up the possibility of New York's senior senator becoming Majority Leader.

Reid's endorsement comes from a Washington Post interview at his home Friday morning.

Schumer is technically the Senate's number three Democrat. But after talking with his deputy, Dick Durbin of Illinois, Reid predicted that the Democrats would vote in Schumer at the end of 2016 when Reid retires.

Durbin, who represents Illinois, says he's also backing Schumer and will instead seek re-election to his current post.

Reid is quoted as calling Schumer "extremely smart" and playing down concerns that Schumer's ties to Wall Street would turn off more populist members.

Schumer's fundraising could also help Democrats retake the Senate.

Before word of Reid's endorsement, Schumer put out a statement praising the former majority leader, who is retiring after sustaining an eye injury during a recent exercise workout that has left lasting damage.

In it, Schumer said, "Harry is one of the best human beings I’ve ever met. His character and fundamental decency are at the core of why he’s been such a successful and beloved leader. He’s so respected by our caucus for his strength, his legislative acumen, his honesty and his determination. He has left a major mark on this body, this country, and on so many who have met him, gotten to know him, and love him."

Schumer has already declared his bid for the spot. He would be the first New York senator to hold the position since it was created nearly a century ago. 

With 2016 being a presidential election year, it sets up the possibility that New York becomes something of the center of the political universe.

Hillary Clinton could very well be the Democratic nominee. She was the state's junior senator until becoming Secretary of State.

The endorsement also sets up the possibility of not just New York, but specifically Brooklyn, as being the focus of attention. 

Clinton is expected to open a campaign office in Kings County and Schumer famously lives in Park Slope where his many weekend bike rides begin.