Former Governor, Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney Endorses Karen Handel for Governor

Says Karen Has the Skills to "Get the Economy Back on Track and Foster Job Creation"

Former Governor and Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney today endorsed Karen Handel's candidacy to be Georgia's Governor.

"A successful businesswoman and public servant, Karen Handel's blend of executive, political, and business experience is just what Georgia needs at this critical time. The leadership skills that she has honed in both the private and public sectors will enable her to make tough decisions and enact the reforms needed to get the economy back on track and foster job creation," said Romney.

Romney's PAC has also sent Handel's campaign a $1,000 contribution.

"I am excited about our big first place showing in the Primary last night and doubly energized buy this endorsement from a highly successful Governor who has become a national Republican leader," Karen said. "I am proud to have his support and humbled by the confidence he has shown in me."

Governor Romney ran a close second in Georgia's Presidential Primary in 2008 and was supported in his run by 32 Georgia members of Congress and legislators including:

Congressman Phil Gingrey

Congressman Jack Kingston

Congressman Tom Price

Congressman Lynn Westmoreland

Sen. Bill Hamrick

Sen. Jack Murphy

Sen. David Shafer

Sen. Cecil Staton

Rep. Tim Bearden

Rep. Jon Burns

Rep. David Casas

Rep. Mickey Channell

Rep. Brooks Coleman

Rep. Steve Davis

Rep. Matt Dollar

Rep. Mark Hamilton

Rep. Bill Hembree

Rep. Calvin Hill

Rep. Doug Holt

Rep. Billy Horne

Rep. Chuck Martin

Rep. John Meadows

Rep. Butch Parrish

Rep. Don Parsons

Rep. Matt Ramsey

Rep. Tom Rice

Rep. Carl Rogers

Rep. Lynn Smith

Rep. Richard Smith

Rep. Willie Talton

Rep. Wendell Willard

Rep. Roger Williams