Senate minority leader endorses Wilson

Heather Wilson picked up a key endorsement from the top-ranking Republican in the state Senate today.

Stuart Ingle, R-Portales and the Senate minority leader, called Wilson “a steady, commonsense leader who continues to fight for lower taxes, private industry, a strong national defense and our families” in an e-mail the Wilson campaign sent to supporters today.

“Heather Wilson is the kind of person who leads by digging in on important issues and getting things done,” he said.

Ingle referenced Wilson’s work to save Cannon Air Force base, even though it isn’t located in the First Congressional District she represents.

“Whether it’s our bases or labs, our children or small businesses, Heather Wilson stands up and fights for the contribution New Mexico makes to our nation,” Ingle said. “She is a commonsense conservative that I believe will win in November and I’m proud to be supporting her in this race for the United States Senate.”

The endorsement comes two days before Republicans will gather in Albuquerque on Saturday for their preprimary nominating convention, and Wilson and her opponent in the Republican U.S. Senate primary, Steve Pearce, are working to solidify support.

Pearce announced today that Teresita Gonzalez of Mesilla will officially nominate him at Saturday’s convention. Gonzales, a local activist, introduced Pearce in Mesilla when he announced his campaign there several months ago. She is a former Ms. New Mexico who is a lifelong Republican.

“I am proud and honored to be officially nominated by Teresita Gonzalez,” Pearce said in a release. “She is a testament that the American dream is alive and well in this country. We are good friends, and I appreciate her support.”