Van de Putte Endorses Alameel in U.S. Senate Race

State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, a Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, on Thursday endorsed David Alameel for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican John Cornyn.

"I am proud to endorse David Alameel not only because he’s the only Democrat who can beat John Cornyn, but because he will fight to hold Wall Street accountable, ensure a quality education for all Texas children and protect Social Security and Medicare," Van de Putte, of San Antonio, said in a statement released by the Alameel campaign. She also praised Alameel's military service and commitment to immigration reform.

Alameel is in a five-way Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat. Earlier this month, he picked up the endorsement of state Sen. Wendy Davis, D-Fort Worth, who is running for governor.

Alameel has received some criticism from Democratic activists and primary challenger Maxey Scherr for past donations to Republican candidates and causes. He has said he wants a "refund" for those contributions, including $8,000 to Cornyn. On Thursday, Cornyn sent a tongue-in-cheek letter to Alameel declining his request for a "refund."