House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Va., endorsed attorney and Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity President Elan Carr on Monday in the race to replace retiring  Rep. Henry A. Waxman, D-Calif.  

“We need leaders like Elan who place service to others above all else,” Cantor said in a statement released by the Carr campaign. “Elan understands the importance of maintaining a strong and agile military and he understands that we need to come together to get America working again. I am proud to support Elan’s campaign this year.”  

Carr is one of just a few Republicans vying for the solidly Democratic district based in some of the wealthier parts of Los Angeles. Cantor’s endorsement could help Carr coalesce the Republican vote in an effort to advance beyond the June 3 top-two primary, which features a crowded Democratic field. Other top-tier candidates  include state Sen. Ted Lieu and former Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel, both Democrats. Spiritual teacher Marianne Williamson is running as an independent.  

California’s 33rd District is rated a Safe Democrat  contest by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.