EMILY’s List, the Democratic fundraising powerhouse, finally weighed in on the special election to replace former Rep. Ellen Tauscher (D-Calif.), endorsing Thursday state Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan in the Sept. 1 all-party primary.

“Joan Buchanan is an effective leader with proven experience in both the public and private sector,— EMILY’s List President Ellen Malcolm said in a statement. “She has a strong record of fiscal responsibility and success in progressive public policy.—

The group could be a source of vital late cash for Buchanan, who is in a tough battle with Lt. Gov. John Garamendi (D), state Sen. Mark DeSaulnier (D) and Iraq War veteran Anthony Woods (D), among others.

“I am honored to have earned the EMILY’s List endorsement,— Buchanan said. “Their members’ support from California and all over the country will help me communicate my message and turn out our targeted voters on Election Day.—

In other developments in the fast-moving race, DeSaulnier Wednesday night released a list of gay and lesbian leaders in the East Bay district that are supporting him — a move designed to counter the endorsements that Woods received earlier in the day from two national gay rights groups.

Tauscher was recently confirmed as undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security in the Obama administration.