(Harrisburg) -- The Dauphin County Democratic Committee has endorsed two congressional candidates for the April primary. The panel is backing mechanical engineer Harry Perkinson of York County in the race for the Fourth Congressional District seat. The Dallastown man says he decided to enter the race before Congressman Todd Platts' announcement to retire after 12 years serving the 19th District. Under a new redistricting plan, the 19th will be renamed the Fourth District and include Adams and York counties, eastern Cumberland County, and the city of Harrisburg. Political activist Gene Stilp has won the organization's endorsement in his bid for the 11th Congressional District seat. The office is now held by Republican Lou Barletta. As a result of redistricting, the district now encompasses parts of nine counties, including Cumberland, Perry, and Dauphin.