The state’s two US senators are busy doling out endorsements today, with both Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand annointing fellow Democrats running in potentially difficult races.

Schumer, as reported yesterday by City & State, is lending his support to Queens Democratic Sen. Toby Stavisky, who was drawn by the Democrats into a primary with her colleague, Sen. Tony Avella, and so has opted to run in the new Asian-majority district instead.

And Democratic newcomer Mark Murphy announced he has landed the support of Gillibrand in his quest to oust, as he put it, “scandal-plagued” incumbent Republican Rep. Michael Grimm.

“Mark Murphy will bring a much-needed fresh perspective to Washington, set aside petty partisan bickering and deliver substantial and long-lasting results on behalf of New Yorkers who work for a living,” Gillibrand said in a statement released by Murphy’s campaign.

“Mark will ensure the U.S. House of Representatives keeps its eye on what matters – putting Americans back to work, protecting Medicare and Social Security for senior citizens, and helping the nation’s middle class regain lost ground. Mark Murphy has the right priorities and the courage to fight for them. I am proud to support his campaign for U.S. Congress.”

Although Grimm has been dogged by allegations of fundraising impropriety, (which he has repeatedly denied), he has the power of incumbency on his side. The district is Democrat-dominated, however, and has changed hands several times over the past several years.

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