Obama endorses Conyers in 13th District

U.S. Representative
John Conyers, Jr.

Washington— President Barack Obama endorsed Rep. John Conyers, D-Detroit, for re-election in the newly drawn 13th Congressional District, his campaign confirmed Friday.

"Congressman John Conyers, Jr. is a tireless champion for all of southeastern Michigan's working families, especially the many struggling to get by," President Obama said in a statement released by Conyers' office. "That is why we need his dedicated efforts back in Congress to continue the fight with me to bring real jobs to the greater Metro Detroit area and our nation."

Obama's campaign confirmed the president had endorsed Conyers.

Conyers is facing challenges from state Sen. Bert Johnson, D-Highland Park, state Rep Shanelle Jackson. D-Detroit, state Sen. Glenn Anderson, D-Westland, and Detroit lawyer Godfrey Dillard. The district accounts for about half of the city's residents.

Conyers' home in his current 14th district seat isn't in the new 13th district although in the past he has represented much of the district.

"I am extremely humbled by President Obama's endorsement," Conyers said. "After a campaign focused on economic development and job creation, my first task back in Congress will be to work with the president and other members of Congress to get our economy back on the right track."

Conyers, 82, is the second-most senior member of the House, dean of the Congressional Black Caucus, former chairman of the House Committee on Government Operations and former chairman of the House Judiciary Committee where he now serves as its top Democrat.