Rep. Major Owens (D) endorsed the presidential campaign of former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean on Monday, becoming the second Empire State House Member to back Dean prior to his appearance Tuesday night in New York City.

Owens, who represents large portions of Brooklyn, said his support of Dean is based on Democratic principles.

“To win in November 2004, we need a real Democrat,” Owens told The Associated Press. “Howard Dean will arouse the complacent and energize the weary.”

Owens is the first member of the Congressional Black Caucus to endorse Dean. Sen. John Edwards (N.C.) has four CBC members supporting him, the most of any of the nine Democratic presidential candidates.

Dean is set to conclude his three-day, nine-city “Sleepless Summer” tour tonight in New York City.