California congressional Dems endorse Bustamante [View All]

LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- California's Democratic congressional delegation on Thursday endorsed Lt. Gov. Cruz Bustamante's bid for governor, even as the lawmakers reiterated their opposition to the gubernatorial recall.

"We strongly oppose the recall, but if California voters make a different choice, then Lt. Gov. Bustamante is the appropriate person to assume the office," said a statement released by Rep. Zoe Lofgren, the chairwoman of the state's Democratic congressional delegation.

The move could be a blow to embattled incumbent Gray Davis, who has struggled to maintain a picture of Democratic unity in the face of the GOP-initiated recall.

The delegation's statement came after a conference call of its members, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

more: http://www.cnn.com/2003/ALLPOLITICS/08/21/bustamante.dems/index.html