PORTLAND — State Rep. Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston, was recognized recently by the left-leaning Maine People’s Alliance, a statewide group that advocates for seniors, the disabled, the poor and immigrants.

Rotundo was honored with the organization’s Rising Tide Award during the alliance’s annual dinner in August.

“Maine People’s Alliance is an important and consistent voice for our seniors, individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable Mainers,” Rotundo said in a prepared statement.

Susann Pelletier, a member of Maine People’s Alliance board of directors, spoke of Rotundo’s work in the Legislature during the award ceremony, which was held at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland.

“Rep. Rotundo’s intelligence, diplomacy and commitment have earned her respect on both sides of the aisle and at home,” said Pelletier, a Lewiston resident and a constituent of Rotundo’s. “But her heart and desire to do what’s right have most inspired us.”

Rotundo is seeking a fourth term as a state representative. She currently serves as House chairwoman of the Legislature’s budget-writing Appropriations Committee.

She faces Republican challenger, James Sorcek. Rotundo also has served four two-year terms as a state senator. 

She was honored by the alliance for “her pivotal role in crafting bipartisan budget measures like the supplemental budget passed earlier this year, which provided critical funds to help people with disabilities and struggling nursing homes in rural areas,” according to a news release.