Congressional candidate Donna Edwards (D-Fort Washington) received a Progressive Leadership Award from the grassroots organization USAction last night in Washington, D.C.

The organization, dedicated to issues like universal health care and ending the war in Iraq, typically honors three individuals with the award on a yearly basis who, according to their website, are the "indispensable leaders of the progressive movement." Past honorees include U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Tom Harkin (D-IA).

Edwards, the Democratic nominee in Tuesday's special election in Maryland's 4th Congressional District, issued a statement expressing her gratitude to the organization.

"I am honored to receive the 2008 Progressive Leadership Award and would like to thank USAction for this recognition," Edwards said. "I admire the work of USAction and its affiliates, including Progressive Maryland." 

She added: "Throughout my twenty plus years as a public interest advocate, I have shared in the USAction mission to bring about a more just and progressive America. While I believe we have made great strides toward this end, the current state of our country shows we have plenty left to do -- on good jobs for working people; quality, affordable, accessible health care; and open and transparent government."

If elected June 17, Edwards pledged to "continue my advocacy for progressive policies as the newest member of Congress."

Edwards will face Peter James (R-Germantown) Tuesday.