Kinder endorses Hulshof

The word leaked out yesterday (and it was no big surprise anyway), but Lt. Gov Peter Kinder announced his endorsement of Kenny Hulshof's candidacy for governor during a news conference this morning in Cape Girardeau:

In making the endorsement, Kinder said he based it on longtime friendship with Hulshof, policy agreements and his evaluation of who can make the strongest race against Nixon.

"My endorsement has nothing to do with assaulting or tearing down another candidate," Kinder said.

Hulshof said he was honored by Kinder's endorsement, especially knowing that Kinder also has his eye on state's highest office.

"I know how hard it is when you put personal ambition aside," Hulshof said. In 2003, Hulshof stepped back from a potential race for governor in favor of Blunt.