Representing District physicians and others concerned about healthcare, DOCPAC has endorsed six candidates running in highly competitive Mayoral and Council races.  The political action committee endorsed Linda Cropp for Mayor (www.lindacroppformayor.com), Vincent Gray for Council Chair (www.grayforchair.com), and A. Scott Bolden for an At-Large Council seat (www.bolden2006.com).  In Ward races, DOCPAC endorsed Erik Gaull in Ward 3 (www.Gaull2006.com), Kathy Henderson in Ward 5, and Curtis Etherly, Jr., in Ward 6 (www.curtis2006.org).  All of the endorsed candidates are Democrats.

In announcing the endorsements, DOCPAC chairman John H. Niles, Jr., MD, said, "The Board looked carefully at each candidate for these positions.  We looked at their responses to a questionnaire focusing on issues of concern to doctors and their patients, especially the issue of medical liability reform.  We also considered the track records of incumbents, and each candidate's views on how to make the District a healthier, safer and altogether better city.  We came away convinced that physicians and patients - everyone who lives and/or works in the District -- will benefit from the leadership provided by these candidates."

"Linda Cropp has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead and to achieve consensus on important issues that affect quality of life in the District," Dr. Niles said.   He noted that after introducing a medical liability reform bill focusing on regulating liability insurance carriers, "Chairman Cropp has been very open to meeting with the medical community to explore other approaches to reform."  DOCPAC's endorsement of Vincent Gray for Council chair came in part because "he has demonstrated a profound commitment to the health and wellbeing of District residents, not only during his tenure on the DC Council but throughout his entire career."  Dr. Niles also lauded Vincent Gray for his interest in effective medical liability reform.  "While each candidate's position on medical liability reform was not the only criterion on which we based our endorsements, it was certainly an important one," Dr. Niles said.  "Linda Cropp, Vincent Gray, A. Scott Bolden, Erik Gaull, Kathy Henderson, and Curtis Etherly, Jr. all understand how the absence of reform is driving doctors out of the District and diminishing residents' access to health care.  DOCPAC enthusiastically endorses these candidates.  This City will be better for their leadership."