Former gubernatorial aide Steve Marks (D), running to replace Rep. Darlene Hooley (D) in the competitive 5th district, has been endorsed by his ex-boss, former Gov. John Kitzhaber, former Oregon Democratic Party Chairman Jim Edmunson and a coalition of local elected officials and civic leaders.

Among Marks’ backers are six mayors and three county commissioners, in addition to two retired county sheriffs.

Marks’ leading opponent in the Democratic primary is state Sen. Kurt Schrader. Running for the Republicans is 2006 nominee Mike Erickson, a wealthy businessman, and Kevin Mannix, a former state Senator and ex-state GOP chairman.
— David M. Drucker