Former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean (D) and Democracy for America, a progressive PAC, have endorsed Reps. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) and Donna Edwards (D-Md.) in their 2012 reelection races.
In an email to DFA members Dean states, "Few Democrats in the House of Representatives have fought harder than Donna and Raul to stop Paul Ryan's plan to end Medicare. They stood strong to defeat attempts to cut Social Security. And they have never backed down in the fight to restore the American Dream for everyone. But now their districts have been redrawn to make them significantly harder for a progressive Democrat to win."
Throughout the country states are redrawing their congressional lines based on the results of the 2010 census.
Grijalva's home state of Arizona is locked in a bitter fight over the congressional districts. Gov. Jan Brewer and the Arizona Senate are attempting to remove the chair of the state's independent redistricting committee.
Under the proposed lines, Grijalva is being challenged in the primary by former state Sen. Amanda Aguirre. She cited Grijalva's position on immigration as her reason for entering the race.
"I don't believe in his stance on open borders," she said.
Grijalva said he is glad to have the endorsement of the DFA.
"I am honored to receive Democracy for America's endorsement. DFA is a crucial ally in our fight for the 99% and a steadfast advocate for the progressive policies and candidates that will move our nation forward. I look forward to continuing our great partnership as we fight for America's working families," he said.
Across the country, Maryland Democrat Donna Edwards, is also facing a primary challenge in her new district. Her opponent will likely be former Prince George's state's attorney Glenn F. Ivey. Edwards has the backing of House minority whip and fellow Maryland Congressman Steny Hoyer.
Edwards also expressed gratitude for the endorsement.
"I want to thank Democracy for America for their continued support. Together, we have fought to hold insurance companies accountable, eliminate corporate greed, and defend our shared values against a Tea Party-controlled Congress. But our most important fights are still ahead of us. I will continue to be a vocal advocate for creating jobs, investing in our nation's infrastructure, protecting our environment, and giving our children the education they deserve to compete in a 21st Century, global economy," she stated.
Arizona's primary for the 2012 congressional elections is August 28, 2012 and Maryland's is currently scheduled for April 3, 2012.