EMILY’s List, an organization that seeks to boost women who support abortion rights into elected office, announced their endorsement of former Los Angeles Controller Wendy Greuel in her race in California’s 33rd District.  

Greuel is one of two Democrats looking to replace Rep. Henry A. Waxman, who announced last week he will retire after a 40 year career in the House. State Sen. Ted Lieu is also running, with other Democrats mulling whether to enter the contest.  

“Wendy Greuel has demonstrated outstanding leadership as a public servant fighting for education, small businesses, and government accountability for California families,” Stephanie Schriock, president of EMILY’s List, said in a news release.  

The EMILY’s List endorsement, which often comes with fundraising and organizational support, could be instrumental in this race, which is likely to see a crowded field of Democratic contenders.  

The endorsement was not unexpected. EMILY’s List endorsed Greuel last year in her race for Los Angeles mayor. Although she was not successful in that race, she raised millions for her bid. She is likely well-known among Los Angeles voters, who would have seen her television advertisements just a few months back.  

Aside from Greuel and Lieu, two other candidates are also in the contest. Documentary film maker Brent Roske and author Marianne Williamson, both independents, announced their bids prior to Waxman’s retirement.  

Republican-turned-independent businessman Bill Bloomfield, who spent millions of his personal fortune to challenge Waxman in 2012, is also mulling a bid.  

California’s 33rd District is rated a Safe Democrat contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call. President Barack Obama carried the district with 61 percent in 2012.