A group of Congressional Democrats has pledged to help Jon Powers in his campaign to win the 26th Congressional District seat. But in doing so, they've made a de facto primary endorsement. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee last summer committed to helping Democratic Congressional candidates Eric Massa and Dan Maffei, but Powers was left out. At the time, committee members said they wanted to stay out of the race because of the unsettled field of candidates. | Powers, however, is still facing a primary challenge. Jack Davis, a wealthy businessman and perennial candidate for the seat, is running. Attorney Alice Kryzan and Erie County Legislator Kathy Konst are in the race, too. | But over the past year, Powers has gained grassroots support, labor support, and the backing of local and county Democratic committees across his district, which includes portions of Monroe County's west side. That, say DCCC officials, is why the committee is providing him with fund-raising, communications, and strategic support. Powers welcomed the offer. | Whichever Democrat makes it past the primary will face Republican Christopher Lee of Erie County. The incumbent, Republican Tom Reynolds, is not seeking re-election.