Schakowsky backs Giannoulias

Illinois state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias's (D) Senate campaign has been endorsed by Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.).

Schakowsky is the fifth member of the Illinois delegation on Sunday, and her backing could help his campaign woo liberal voters in the February primary. She considered running for the seat herself when it looks like a special election might be held.

"Alexi Giannoulias is the best candidate to retain President Obama's seat because he has the courage to take on powerful interests and stand up for Illinois families," Schakowsky said. "He supports health-insurance reform that will reign in the soaring costs of premiums and protect families from losing coverage during these difficult economic times."

Giannoulias also has the backing of Reps. Phil Hare, Mike Quigley, Bill Foster and Luis Gutierrez, along with much of the state political establishment.

Reps. Bobby Rush and Danny Davis have backed Chicago Urban League President Cheryle Robinson Jackson in the primary.

Former Chicago Inspector General David Hoffman and attorney Jacob Meister have not garnered any endorsements from the delegation.