Maine Democrats from across the progressive spectrum on Tuesday announced their decision to back presidential hopeful U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont.
The list of Sanders’ backers includes four sitting state senators and 30 representatives, including House Majority Leader Rep. Jeff McCabe and Secretary of State Matt Dunlap. Former Maine Democratic Party chairman and noted lobbyist Severin Beliveau, former Portland Mayor Michael Brennan and former House Speaker John Richardson are included in the so-called Working Class Cabinet. Eight county chairmen and chairwomen of the Maine Democratic Party also announced their support.
The announcement comes less than two weeks before the first votes are cast in presidential caucuses and primaries. The Iowa caucus will be held Feb. 1 and the New Hampshire primary will be held Feb. 9. The Maine Democratic Party will hold municipal caucuses March 6 and 7.
Hillary Clinton announced her slate of Maine backers in October. It includes 40 elected officials and activists. Clinton’s Maine backers include former Gov. John Baldacci and Attorney General Janet Mills, as well as U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, House Speaker Mark Eves and former Senate President Justin Alfond.
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