Democratic Rep. George Miller endorsed a potential successor Wednesday in the California district he’s retiring from after 20 terms.  

Miller, who announced his retirement this month , is supporting state Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, the only Democrat so far to announce a bid in 11th District.  

“I know Mark DeSaulnier exceedingly well,” Miller said in a statement released by the DeSaulnier campaign. “Mark is the most qualified and capable candidate to carry on my work in Congress on behalf of the residents in the 11th district. He is progressive, results-driven, and has a deep connection to the communities and neighborhoods in this district. Most importantly, Mark embodies the issues and values that I have fought for throughout my career.” DeSaulnier has received endorsements from a number of members of the California delegation. However, Miller’s blessing could keep any other interested top-tier Democrats on the sidelines.  

California’s 11th District is rated a Safe Democratic contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call. President Barack Obama carried the district by a 38-point margin in 2012.