EMILYs List, a political action committee aimed at supporting pro-choice Democratic women candidates, announced that it was endorsing Dr. Ala Stanford for the seat of retiring U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans.

Stanford’s career as a physician and health care advocate drew the endorsement; she served as the regional director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under President Biden and founded the Black Doctors COVID-19 Consortium.

EMILYs List President Jessica Mackler released a statement, saying, “Dr. Ala Stanford is a physician and health care advocate who has delivered real results for Philadelphia families, expanding health care access and fighting for underserved communities. Now she is running for Congress to take on Trump’s harmful agenda, lower costs, and ensure every Philadelphian has a fair shot. EMILYs List is proud to support her campaign.”

In response, Stanford said, “To be recognized by EMILYs List, an organization that has championed women leaders for decades, is an honor I do not take lightly. I have spent my entire career proving that when you show up for your community, your community shows up for you. I did not wait for permission or a title. I showed up, built something, and got it done.”

“EMILYs List sees that, and their endorsement is a powerful reminder of what is at stake in this race: electing someone who will fight for healthcare, for families, and for Philadelphia with everything she has,” Stanford added. “I am ready for this moment, and I am just getting started.”