GOVERNOR TOMMY THOMPSON ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Tommy Thompson, former Governor of Wisconsin and Secretary of Health and Human Services, has endorsed John McCain for president.

"Today, I am proud to announce my endorsement of John McCain for president," said Governor Thompson. "John McCain has a lifetime of service to our country, and he is the leader best prepared to serve as commander in chief from day one. His conservative record and personal leadership qualities give us the best chance of defeating the Democrats in November."

John McCain thanked Governor Thompson for his support, saying, "I admire Tommy for his service to our country and his leadership in the Republican Party. He is a dedicated public servant and, I am honored to have his support."

Thompson was born in Elroy, Wisconsin. He is a former Captain in the United States Army and Army Reserve. His political career began in 1966 when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly, after earning his law degree at the University of Wisconsin Law School. In 1973 he was elected assistant Assembly minority leader and, in 1981, he was elected to serve as Assembly minority leader. He is married with three adult children. Governor Thompson served Wisconsin for an unprecedented four terms as Governor from 1987 to 2001. Governor Thompson served as the 7th U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2001 to 2005.