Roll Call – Democratic Congressman Endorses for Miller Seat
State Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, a Democrat vying for California’s newly open 11th District, will announce Wednesday the endorsement of California Rep. Jared Huffman, according to a release provided first to CQ Roll Call.
“There are a lot of differences between Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, but one similarity is how partisan bickering, parochialism, and petty transactional politics persistently stand in the way of getting things done,” Huffman said in a forthcoming release. “I’m enthusiastically endorsing Mark DeSaulnier for Congress because having served with him for six years in the State Legislature, I know that he’s the type of leader who can help change the tone and productivity of Congress.
Huffman’s endorsement comes two days after Democratic Rep. George Miller announced his retirement. DeSaulnier announced his candidacy for the seat within hours.
The endorsement is part of DeSaulnier’s effort to coalesce major Democratic support before others can enter the race. Fellow Democrats mentioned as potential candidates include state Assemblywomen Joan Buchanan and Susan Bonilla.
The top-two primary is scheduled for June 3. The filing deadline is March 7.
California’s 11th District is a Safe Democratic seat. President Barack Obama carried the district with 68 percent in 2012.