PORTLAND (AP) – U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud gave his endorsement to North Carolina Sen. John Edwards in his run to be the Democratic presidential nominee in next year’s elections.

The Maine Democrat said Edwards is the only candidate who has offered real plans to help struggling rural communities and to provide health care coverage for uninsured Americans.

“John Edwards has the courage to tackle problems that other politicians simply ignore, like ending poverty in America and making trade work for working Americans,” Michaud said.

Michaud represents Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.

AP-ES-10-19-07 1351EDT