Former president Clinton flying in for Lynch

Former President Bill Clinton heads to Boston this Thursday for a rally for Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-South Boston).

Lynch's campaign says Clinton is headlining a "Labor and Neighbor" rally.

The rally is set for the Iron Workers Local #7 Union Hall at 12:30 p.m.

“I am honored to have the friendship and support of President Clinton," Lynch said in a statement. "As the ‘man from Hope,’ I know that President Clinton understands and appreciates the importance of one’s roots. I look forward to welcoming him to my hometown of South Boston and to the Ironworker’s hall where my career began.”

Lynch is facing challenges from the left -- Milton Democrat Mac D'Alessandro and independent Phil Dunkelbarger -- and the right -- Republicans Keith Lepor and Vernon Harrison.

D'Alessandro spokesman Mat Helman said D'Alessandro had the "deepest respect" for Clinton. He added: "It’s expected that the Democratic establishment would support the incumbent," such as recent Senate races in Pennsylvania and Arkansas.