MARYLAND BRIEFING

-- Susan DeFord

CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS

---

Community Group Backs Wynn Opponent

---

Donna F. Edwards, who is challenging incumbent Rep. Albert R. Wynn for the Democratic nomination in the 4th Congressional District, has been endorsed by the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, a group that advocates for low- and moderate-income families.

"She has been a tremendous advocate for working people and their families during her career," Gloria Swierenga, chairman of the group's Maryland chapter, said in a statement.

Edwards is executive director of the Washington-based Arca Foundation, which has supported such issues as the "living wage" and an end to capital punishment. She has challenged Wynn over his votes to authorize the Iraq war and to approve an energy bill.

The district includes parts of Montgomery and Prince George's counties.

Mfume Endorsed by Party Activist Coalition

---

U.S. Senate candidate Kweisi Mfume (D) has won the endorsement of Progressive Democrats of America, a coalition of activists.

"Democrats need to coalesce around candidates like Kweisi Mfume in order to win back Congress this fall," Executive Director Tim Carpenter said in a statement released yesterday. "Mfume grew up in poverty and therefore understands issues of economic justice that affect millions of Americans."

Mfume, a former U.S. representative and a former president of the NAACP, is among the leaders in a crowded field for the U.S. Senate seat held by retiring Sen. Paul S. Sarbanes (D).