"Steve Pougnet is a proven leader who will be an amazing advocate for equality in Congress," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "Mayor Pougnet knows first-hand the discrimination faced by LGBT people and will work to ensure every family is protected."

"I appreciate the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign because we have shared values and goals - to realize a country where we are all treated with equal dignity and respect. I look forward to putting leadership into action in Congress to address the host of inequalities faced by the LGBT community," said Pougnet.

Already receiving the endorsement of the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, he would be the first gay parent to serve in Congress. While Rep. Bono Mack has voted favorably on some LGBT issues, her record is mixed and falls far short of Mayor Pougnet's.

"While many lawmakers stood on the right side of history in voting to end 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' Rep. Bono Mack voted to maintain discrimination that hurts our national security. Thankfully, voters have a better choice in Steve Pougnet who will always stand up for equality," added Solmonese.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Paid for by Human Rights Campaign PAC (www.hrc.org/pac)and authorized by Friends of Steve Pougnet.