WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrat John Edwards is touting prominent gay supporters who have signed on to his presidential campaign, including a former adviser to President Clinton.

Businessman David Mixner is one of 25 people listed on a news release that the Edwards campaign distributed today.

The release also includes a statement from the candidate saying he is honored to have the backing of so many respected gay leaders.

Edwards is making a push for gay support in the competitive Democratic presidential primary. In February, he came out in support of legislation that would end the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that prevents people who are openly gay from serving in the military.

Edwards has competition for the gay community's support -- Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton have both said they oppose the policy.

On the Net: www.johnedwards.com

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