Portland — U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., endorsed Emily Bjornberg, a Democratic candidate for the 33rd state Senate District, at a news conference Wednesday.

Murphy spoke about Bjornberg’s commitment to children’s health and the environment, as well as sustainable economic growth, according to a news release.

“With a record of helping those in need, we know we can count on Emily Bjornberg to stand up for our families, and most importantly, for our children,” Murphy said in a statement.

“As a mother and as a citizen of Connecticut, I want to believe that our state government is looking out for our best interest, but we know that is not always the case,” Bjornberg said in a statement. “I am running for the State Senate because our children and our small towns deserve a stronger advocate in Hartford, who is not beholden to special interests, on this or any other issue. It is a true honor to have Senator Murphy here with us in Portland today to support this campaign.”

The 33rd District encompasses Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland and Westbrook. State Sen. Art Linares, R-Westbrook, and Green Party candidate Colin Bennett also are running for the seat.