New Dems roll out 5 endorsements

The centrist New Democrat Coalition is throwing its weight behind five new House candidates.

{mosads}The group is backing Iraq War veteran Dr. Manan Trivedi (D) in his race for retiring Rep. Jim Gerlach’s (R-Pa.) seat.

It’s also picked favorites in open-seat contested primaries. The group’s PAC is supporting Redlands Mayor Pete Aguilar (D), who’s in a crowded primary to succeed Rep. Gary Miller (R-Calif.); Emily Cain, who’s running to succeed Rep. Mike Michaud (D-Maine); former Virginia Lt. Gov. Don Beyer (D), who’s running for retiring Rep. Jim Moran’s (D-Va.) seat; and Kathleen Rice’s (D) bid to succeed retiring Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.).

“These candidates understand that the key to our nation’s economic resurgence is a shared policy vision that will help to unlock our boundless innovative potential. As small-business owners, veterans, doctors and advocates, they represent America at its best,” Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.), the PAC’s chairman, said in a statement.

The five join Gwen Graham (D), running against Rep. Steve Southerland (R-Fla.), and Montana House candidate John Lewis (D) as endorsees.