Washington, DC – Reacting to the news that Chris Murphy has defeated incumbent Republican Nancy Johnson and has won the US Congressional seat in Connecticut’s 5th district, Twenty-First Century Democrats called the outcome, “a significant step forward for progressive ideals and values.” During the 2006 election cycle, Twenty-First Century Democrats endorsed 34 candidates, including Murphy, all chosen due to their extraordinary leadership abilities.

“Chris Murphy was an essential part of our team this election season,” said Kelly C. Young, president of Twenty-First Century Democrats. “Chris will work toward enacting progressive policies while in office. We are confident that his commanding leadership abilities will help him find success in the US Congress, just as he succeeded in enacting landmark bills as a State Senator in Connecticut.”

At first, this congressional seat seemed safe for Republican incumbent Nancy Johnson. However, Chris Murphy’s campaign closed the gap, and weeks prior to the election, Murphy was within the margin of error in the polls. Chris’s monumental win will allow the Democrats to enact laws that will benefit the common good. While in office, he plans to focus on the issues of campaign finance reform, universal health care, stem-cell research, energy independence, and environmental reforms.

“Chris’ significant victory today is one part of an emerging trend this evening,” said Young. “Voters in Connecticut – and elsewhere – were ready for change. We know that Chris Murphy will be part of that change in Washington and he will represent Connecticut in an outstanding manner.”

The endorsement of such a small number of candidates nationwide signals a new direction for Twenty-First Century Democrats. “In order to achieve substantive changes in public policy, we need to elect Democrats who will actively support our progressive ideals,” said Young. “Our elected officials need to reach out to America, inspire, and motivate millions of citizens to become involved in their communities. Chris Murphy is the type of leader who can compel the citizens of Connecticut to become active in our democracy once again.”

#

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.