Outgoing Congressman John Olver wants to make sure Massachusetts has a representative with power on Capitol Hill. Our Brandon Walker has more on his endorsement of colleague Richard Neal in the race for the new first district.

  To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

PITTSFIELD, M.A. -- "The cream has come to the top. You're finally number one," said Congressman John Olver (D) of the First District.

The cream, at least according to Congressman John Olver is Springfield Democrat Richard Neal. Neal currently represents the second Congressional District. He's hoping to stay in office, though in the newly re-drawn First District.

"One of the most important things i can do is make certain that there is a smooth transition," said Olver.

Olver, who announced last fall that he wouldn't seek re-election, said his retirement, along with that of Congressman Barney Frank, will challenge the the Bay State's political heft. With that, he endorsed Richard Neal on Monday, calling his presence essential.

"He is going to be in a position to help with the monies to get to communities for economic development," said Olver.

Neal, who sits on the House Ways and Means committee, agrees. He said there isn't much that separates his current second district from what will be the new first district.

"Part of it is being visible and truth is this is easy transportation to get from Springfield to Pittsfield and across the Berkshries," said Neal.

Monday's news comes as no surprise to the other two Democratic candidates running to represent the first district.

In a statement, Pittsfield Democrat Andrea Nuciforo said, in part "this is a new district and the only endorsements that matter will be those made in September."

South County candidate Democrat Bill Shein took it step further saying Neal is not the right fit for the district.

"Rep. Neal plays the status-quo game of raising money from Corporate PACs and their Washington lobbyists," said Shein.

Olver said the allegations don't make sense. Instead, he said his rationale is simple; keeping Neal in Congress keeps political power within the Massachusetts Delegation.

"Richie for instance is one of the most powerful voices in the democratic caucus," said Olver.

State representative Smitty Pignatelli spoke to YNN minutes after the endorsement. He wouldn't formally endorse Neal, but said he appreciates his visits to the Berkshires. A primary election will take place on September 6th.