Patty Bellasalma, President of the California National Organization for Women (NOW) today announced her endorsement of Debra Bowen for Congress in the May 17 special election to replace Jane Harman. Ms. Bellasalma states "Debra's impressive record of supporting equality for women in the workplace, education and healthcare makes her the best candidate running to represent the families of 36th Congressional District."

"Patty has been a real champion for women's causes and her endorsement means a great deal to me," said Bowen. "In Congress, I will fight for access to affordable quality health care, defend choice, ensure our environment is protected, make college more affordable, and help create good paying jobs so parents can support their families."

Debra Bowen has a long record of helping women and families throughout her entire public service career. She supported the Healthy Families Act which would allow working Americans to earn paid sick time so they can take care of their own health and those of their family members. Debra helped expand vocational training at community colleges so more individuals can get good paying jobs. She supports a livable wage for workers and is a strong advocate of tough environmental justice policies so that polluters don't destroy local neighborhoods and communities.

Bowen recently introduced her plan to stimulate the economy and create jobs. Her "Policies for a 21st Century Economy in the 36th Congressional District" includes expanding access to capital for small businesses, including women-owned businesses in California. Debra will work with business leaders to develop specific programs designed to help them thrive by getting credit flowing again so that small businesses can hire workers, and families can afford to send their children to college.

Bowen has received the support of other women leaders including: Judy Chu, U.S. Representative; Laura Chick, former Los Angeles City Controller; Ruth Gallanter, former City Councilmember; Sheila Kuehl, former State Senator; Fran Pavley, State Senator , Dee Hardison, former Torrance Mayor; Betsy Butler, Assemblymember and Martha Escutia, former State Senator.