At least a couple more Republican presidential candidates have called Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell about his endorsement, including former House speaker Newt Gingrich. But not businessman Herman Cain.
McDonnell was pressed about the courtship Tuesday morning during his monthly segment on WTOP radio. Gingrich is a “smart guy with big ideas,” McDonnell said. Cain hasn’t called, but “he’s a breath of fresh air.” He didn’t mention any other candidates by name.
The Republican governor previously admitted former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and Texas Gov. Rick Perry have called seeking his endorsement.
“I imagine they’ve asked every Republican governor and every Republican congressman,” he said. “It’s not a big deal.”
McDonnell, popular among Virginians and a rising figure nationwide, reiterated that he will withhold his endorsement until after the Nov. 8 state legislative elections. Or he may not endorse anyone.
“It may not be prudent for me to do that” as chairman of the Republican Governors Association, McDonnell said.
McDonnell was also asked about the state’s alleged attempts to woo Lockheed Martin from Maryland after the Montgomery County board flirted with a resolution calling on the federal government to cut defense spending.
He has not had a conversation with the company yet, he said, but, “I’m working on things as we speak.”
