Almost four years ago to the day, I threw my unwavering support behind a passionate, thoughtful veteran in the middle of a close, competitive primary.
His name was Jim Webb -- now Senator Jim Webb of Virginia.
Today, I'm compelled to enter the fray once more, and throw my full support behind Cal Cunningham for North Carolina's Senate seat.
This is another key pick-up opportunity in a southern "swing state," and Cal is beyond a doubt the best candidate to take on Richard Burr this November.
Cal would be the first veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to serve in the U.S. Senate. He would bring a veteran's unique perspective to policymaking in Washington.
Cal has seen war and understands it's time to "Conclude the Mission in Iraq. With Honor. Period."
Cal knows sexual orientation plays no role on the battlefield, and that it's time to end "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
Cal knows first-hand why we must break our "destructive dependence on foreign oil from unfriendly regimes," and he recognizes that climate change poses a critical threat to our national security.
Cal will fight for veterans and honor their sacrifices.
On all these issues, and so many more, Richard Burr is at odds with Cal -- and at odds with his constituents.
Cal Cunningham has seen war with his own eyes. He's earned a Bronze Star cracking down on contractor crimes in Iraq, taking on some of the most powerful corporations on earth.
He's ready for this fight, too, and I'm confident he can beat Richard Burr this November.