Shadegg backs Hay

Capping a day when CD1 candidate Sydney Hay picked up the support of ten state legislators in the district she hopes to represent, Hay also gained a backer in higher office: U.S. Rep. John Shadegg (R-3).

Shadegg is the second member of Congress to lend his support to Hay, who looks increasingly likely to become the Republican nominee to face off against the eventual Democratic nominee for the open seat. U.S. Rep. Jeff Flake endorsed Hay on May 20, and U.S. Rep. Trent Franks (R-2), for whom Hay was a spokeswoman during his 2006 re-election campaign, endorsed her as soon as she entered the race last August.

"We need you in the halls of Congress," the release from the Hay campaign quoted Shadegg as saying.

Shadegg's endorsement means Hay now has the backing of all Republican congressmen from Arizona, with the exception of sitting CD1 Rep. Rick Renzi. However, since Renzi is under federal indictment and is not seeking re-election, it is probable his endorsement would be more of a liability than an asset.

Hay is running against Preston Korn, over whom she enjoys a considerable advantage in fundraising, name recognition and, increasingly, the support of Republican officeholders.