Wilson endorsed by former rival

Associated Press

Updated: Mar 15, 2012 1:17 PM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Lt. Gov. John Sanchez is endorsing former Congresswoman Heather Wilson for the Republican nomination for a U.S. Senate seat held by retiring Democrat Jeff Bingaman.

Sanchez withdrew from the Senate race last month, saying he wanted to avoid a divisive GOP primary that would hurt the eventual nominee.

Sanchez said Thursday he's backing Wilson because the GOP needs to unite behind its strongest candidate. Las Cruces businessman Greg Sowards is the other Republican in the race.

In a statement, Sanchez said, "We need leaders who aren't afraid to make tough decisions, even when they're unpopular. We start by electing leaders like Heather Wilson to the United States Senate."

Running for the Democratic nomination are U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich of Albuquerque and state Auditor Hector Balderas.

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