Former Iowa Governor Endorses Romney

Ray for Romney: Iowa's most prominently-elected Republicans: Governor Terry Branstad, Senator Chuck Grassley, Congressman Steve King and Congressman Tom Latham have all declined to endorse a Republican presidential candidate so far in this race. But today, Mitt Romney's campaign announced former Iowa Governor Bob Ray has endorsed his efforts. Governor Ray isn't an active as he once was in Iowa politics, of course, but you do still see him make numerous public appearances. Ray's approval will add to that "establishment" list of supporters Romney's camp has been releasing. I wonder when we will see Newt Gingrich start to release prominent supporters?

Here's the release from the campaign:

MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES SUPPORT OF FORMER IOWA GOVERNOR ROBERT RAY

Boston, MA – Mitt Romney today announced the support of former Iowa Governor Robert Ray.

“I am truly honored to have Governor Ray’s support,” said Mitt Romney. “Not only was he a great governor but he is also a tremendous leader with a long history serving both Iowa and the country. In the coming weeks, I look forward to working with Governor Ray to bring my message of a “Simpler, Smaller, and Smarter” approach to government to all Iowans.”

Announcing his support, former Governor Ray said, “I want our next president to be someone whose character and judgment I respect and whose ideas are valid for our country. I believe Mitt Romney offers the personal qualities and vision to become a truly great president. Mitt has a strong record in business, including turning around the Winter Olympics, and leading the state of Massachusetts. Mitt Romney would represent America’s values and interests in an uncertain, challenging, and competitive world. With our future in mind, I am proud to support Governor Romney in the caucuses and hope to vote for him next November.”

Background On Governor Robert Ray:

Robert Ray Was The Governor Of Iowa From 1969 Until 1983. After leaving office, Governor Ray also served as interim Mayor of Des Moines and as interim President of Drake University. He also founded the character education program, Character Counts. Governor Ray is a U.S. Army veteran and was a delegate to the United Nations Conference on Refugees in Geneva, Switzerland.