Another liberal group came out in support of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand's 2010 Senate bid on Tuesday, though this one could cut both ways with voters.
The Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now Political Action Committee, also known as ACORN, endorsed Gillibrand for New York Senate, calling her "a leader who will always fight for those who have been pushed to the brink in this economic crisis."
ACORN, which fights for policies that benefit low-income and working class people, has been dogged by controversy for its voter registration tactics in the 2008 campaign. But that hasn't scared away Democrats, who, like Gillibrand, still seek out its support and organizing clout.
"I am honored to have the endorsement of ACORN and proud to partner with them on an agenda aimed at helping those New Yorkers that are struggling in this difficult economy," Gillibrand said in a statement.
The support of the group, which boasts 400,000 members, should help Gillibrand in a primary where appeal to the liberal base of the state party is key. It is another sign of progress for the senator, who has been wooing liberal groups that were lukewarm, at best, about her appointment to the post in January. Gillibrand, who compiled a moderate record in just over a term in the House representing an upstate New York district, was tapped to succeed Hillary Rodham Clinton, who went on to become secretary of State.
In a general election, the ACORN endorsement, however, could be fodder for attacks by Republicans, who have raised questions about the organization's ethics in the past. No GOP candidates are in the race, yet. Rep. Peter T. King has said he will make a decision about a run by the end of the summer.
To see how the 2010 Senate races are shaping up, check out the CQ Politics' election map.
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