Members of Congress from outside Florida rarely get involved in the state's legislative races.

But in the contest to replace term-limited Democratic Rep. Jack Seiler, whose eastern Broward district includes the predominantly gay community of Wilton Manors, one of the nation's best-known gay politicians has taken sides.

U.S. Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts has endorsed Oakland Park accountant Mark LaFontaine, who, if elected, would be the first openly gay member of the Florida Legislature.

"He will be an effective state representative, not just for the (gay) community, but for the broader community as well," Frank said in a statement.

His rivals include Wilton Manors Commissioner Gary Resnick, who is also gay, Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton and Deerfield Beach Commissioner Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed.