NOW and L.A. Mayor to Back Ruiz

Heading into the final seven days before the 2012 elections, some political heavyweights are trying to sway voters with endorsements.  36th Congressional District candidate Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-Coachella) received two key ones today.

As reported yesterday, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has thrown his support behind Ruiz, and another Riverside County Democrat, Mark Takano (D- Moreno Valley).

"This is a man who understands giving back," the mayor said via a media conference call Tuesday afternoon. "We know he will work hard in doing the right thing for our seniors, our veterans, and all of us."

Mayor Villaraigosa pushed the fact the the Democrats need every seat in the House they can get to avoid gridlock, saying, "The President is going to need these two in Washington, and we're going to get them there."

Ruiz say he was honored by the endorsement of one of the Democratic party's heavy hitters, adding "This election is about reviving 'The American Dream'. This is about being at a crossroads in America, and we have to keep the dream alive."

Ruiz also received an endorsement this morning from the National Organization of Women.  

California NOW President Patty Bellasalma noted the endorsement via email, commenting:

"For women in particular, the stakes could not be higher this year. Not only are Republican House and Senate members making outrageous statements about rape, but they continue to introduce bills restricting women’s reproductive health care choices as well as attacking pay equity, safety net programs, Social Security, Medicare and education. We need leaders like Dr. Ruiz who understand the real consequences of those bills and will stand up and speak out as an advocate for women, children and working families."