BIRMINGHAM(AP) — U.S. Rep. Artur Davis says 16 black mayors in Alabama have endorsed his Democratic bid to become Alabama’s first black governor.

The congressman from Birmingham said Thursday those endorsing him include Selma Mayor George Evans and Bessemer Mayor Edward May. Davis previously won the support of Mobile Mayor Sam Jones.

The endorsements were announced by the Davis campaign a day after Davis drew the ire of key black political leaders by declining to be screened by their organizations.

The groups normally don’t endorse candidates who decline to meet with them.

Davis said the mayors who back him reflect “grassroots” support, not special interest power brokers.