CA-36: Worried Democrats Call Out The Big Dog for Janice Hahn

Now, the Democratic Party is bringing out the “Big Dog” himself, former President Bill Clinton, to help defeat Republican Craig Huey.

Bill Clinton endorsed Los Angeles City Councilwoman Janice Hahn on Monday, the latest big-name Democrat to formally support her House bid.

Hahn faces businessman Craig Huey (R) in the special-election runoff for former Rep. Jane Harman’s (D-Calif.) seat. Democrats have moved to circle the wagons around Hahn after Huey finished a surprise second in the May 17 jungle primary. In endorsing Hahn’s bid, Clinton joins a list that includes House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and former Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean, among others.

“America is at a crossroads, and we need to decide whether we are going to pursue a path of right-wing extremism or one of compromise and common-sense solutions,” the former president said in a statement. “Janice has proven herself to be a champion for creating jobs, cleaning our environment, protecting a woman’s right to choose, and expanding access to healthcare. We need people like Janice Hahn in Congress, and I’m proud to endorse her.”

Note that this endorsement is aimed at moderate Democrats who might not be too happy about the California economy and who may stay home on special election day, July 12th. Clinton will also be writing a fundraising letter for Hahn but will not travel to campaign in the district prior to the election.

If this election tightens, don’t be surprised to see Vice President Biden or Michelle Obama make a campaign appearance. The Democrats do not want to take this seat for granted, particularly since the district will change in 2012 due to redistricting.