Washington, DC – Twenty-First Century Democrats congratulates John Sarbanes and his campaign for their victory in Maryland’s 3rd congressional district. Sarbanes was one of 34 candidates endorsed by Twenty-First Century Democrats, the nation’s 13th largest political action committee, during the 2006 election cycle.

“We are proud to have endorsed John Sarbanes this election season,” said Kelly C. Young, president of Twenty-First Century Democrats. “John ran because he believed this nation was ready for a change. We commend his commitment to rebuilding the strength and focus of the Democratic Party, in order to enact progressive policy initiatives while in office.”

Throughout this congressional race, Sarbanes consistently led his Republican opponent John White in the polls. As a US Representative, John will be committed to passing legislation that supports the entire community, as opposed to the interests of the privileged few. His top priorities in Congress will be to fight for universal health care coverage, more funding for No Child Left Behind, higher standards of accountability in the government, and to advocate for the environment.

“John Sarbanes’ commanding victory today is part of what looks like an emerging trend nationwide,” said Young. “Voters in Maryland – and elsewhere – wanted change and wanted a return to common-sense governing. We know John will provide precisely that.”

The endorsement of such a small number of candidates nationwide signals a new direction for Twenty-First Century Democrats. “We are bringing the Democratic Party back to the people, and we’re making it a party of movement again,” said Young. “We need strong risk-takers to once again stand up for what they believe in, share their vision with America, and motivate millions of citizens to become active in their communities. John Sarbanes is the type of leader who can generate bold ideas that cross ideological lines, express our values, and solve problems that are facing our world today.”

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Twenty-First Century Democrats seeks out, supports, and elects extraordinary, visionary leaders who are courageous risk-takers committed to creating a just, tolerant, and open society.