Dave Chappelle Explains Why He Backs MD Governor Hopeful Ben Jealous

Dave Chappelle says his backing of Maryland gubernatorial candidate Ben Jealous is NOT a political Hollywood ploy ... 'cause he's just doing what he thinks is right.

We got the comedian out Sunday in Forestville, MD, where he was making calls on behalf of Jealous, who's running for Governor against Republican incumbent Larry Hogan.

Dave tells us he doesn't consider what he's doing to be a "celebrity endorsement," as he's known Ben his whole life and truly believes he's qualified for the job. He says rather than tell people how to vote, he's simply making them aware of Ben's campaign.

While Dave might not necessarily consider this a political statement, it definitely is ... and his on-the-ground involvement is just the latest sign that Hollywood's taking the midterm elections seriously, especially when it comes to Democratic candidates.