COLUMBIA -- Former Vice President Dick Cheney has endorsed U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett in the race for governor.
Cheney's endorsement on Wednesday is the highest-level public endorsement so far in the June 8 GOP primary race to replace term-limited Republican Gov. Mark Sanford.
In his endorsement, Cheney calls Barrett one of the most conservative leaders he's worked with. He also praises Barrett for his support of a bailout of banks and Wall Street institutions that's become hugely unpopular this election year.
Also Wednesday, Barrett rolled out a 60-second campaign ad aimed at underscoring his decision to support a bailout that he says hasn't been implemented well.
Barrett faces Attorney General Henry McMaster, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer and state Rep. Nikki Haley for the nomination in the June 8 primary.
McMaster has been endorsed by U.S. Senator John McCain. Bauer is backed by Fox News host and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and Haley got the nod from former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin.
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(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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