By Steve Peoples, Journal State House Bureau

Elizabeth "Betsy" Dennigan has earned the endorsement of the "largest organization of feminist activists in the United States."

The National Organization for Women is backing the former East Providence state representative who moved to Narragansett and hopes to unseat Second Congressional District incumbent Congressman James R. Langevin in a September 2010 Democratic primary election.

"Ms. Dennigan has been and will be unequivocal in her support of issues that improve the lives of women and as a result for families in Rhode Island and across the country," said Carolyn Mark, president of NOW's Rhode Island chapter, in a statement. "Now, more than ever, we need legislators who will stand up for women and Ms. Dennigan will do just that."

The endorsement is not a surprise -- Dennigan is pro-choice and Langevin is not -- but it could pay dividends.

Dennigan has struggled with early fundraising efforts -- she loaned her campaign $100,000 in the last quarter -- and may now have access to NOW's national network of political donors.

The move also suggests that like-minded organizations, such as Emily's List, may not be far behind.