Nancy Pelosi has thrown her support behind Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.) for majority leader today, giving a significant boost to Murtha in his race for the position against Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.).

“Your strong voice for national security, the war on terror and Iraq provides genuine leadership for our party, and I count on you to continue to lead on these vital issues,” Pelosi wrote Murtha Sunday in a letter obtained by The Hill. “For this and for all you have done for Democrats in the past and especially this last year, I am pleased to support your candidacy for majority leader for the 110th Congress.”

As the House Democrats’ unchallenged leader, Pelosi has considerable sway over her colleagues. She and Murtha have long been close allies, but until now, she had not interfered in the majority leader race.

Her endorsement has the potential to turn the race,especially if she chooses to campaign on Murtha’s behalf. Pelosi’s decision to back Murtha is the most significant move she has made since Democrats scored a historic victory on Election Day.

Hoyer said Pelosi’s support for Murtha was no surprise.

“Nancy told me some time ago that she would personally support Jack. I respect her decision as the two are very close,” Hoyer said in a statement. “I am grateful for the support I have from my colleagues, and have the majority of the caucus supporting me. I look forward to working with Speaker Pelosi as Majority Leader.”

Murtha thanked Pelosi for her support: “I am deeply gratified to receive the support of Speaker Pelosi, a tireless advocate for change and a true leader for our Party and our country.”

Roll Call reports that Pelosi’s letter was distributed today to “newly elected House Democrats.” In 2001 Pelosi received the critical support from Murtha that helped her to defeat Hoyer in the race for Minority Whip. Roll Call noted that “sources close to the California Democrat said she wants to reward Murtha for his loyalty by backing him in the Majority Leader race.”

Filed under: Congress, Democrats, House Of Reps, In The News, Politics | Get Permalink or trackback |