Shelley Berkley

Shelley Berkley (D) is a U.S. Representative from Nevada running for the open Senate seat vacated by disgraced former Senator John Ensign. Congresswoman Berkley has been a strong and constant advocate for women's rights issues in the U.S. House since 1998. For example, when Rush Limbaugh called Sandra Fluke, a Georgetown University Law student, a "slut" and a "prostitute" for speaking out against the Catholic hierarchy on contraception coverage, Berkley started a petition demanding he be take off the air.

Background:

• Elected to the Nevada Assembly, 1982-84
• Regent, University Community College System of NV, 1990-98
• Chair, Nevada Hotel & Motel Association, 1994
• Elected to U.S. House, 1998-present

Berkley's Positions on Key Issues:Congresswoman Berkley has been a solid vote and advocate for women's rights, reproductive rights, and economic equality issues. During the budget and debt ceiling debates, she was a clear voice concerning the impact of these economic policies on women.

Prospects: Berkley faces wealthy trial lawyer Byron Georgiou in the Democratic primary. Berkley already has the endorsement of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who won re-election in 2010. The Cook Political Report considers the general race a toss-up.

General Election Opponent: Berkley would face incumbent Dean Heller in the general election. Heller was appointed to the seat after Senator John Ensign's resignation and is running for his first full term.

Other Endorsements: Emily's List, Women's Campaign Forum, National Women's Political Caucus

Website: shelleyberkley.com