Not that Tim Donner, E.W. Jackson Sr., David McCormick. or Jamie Radtke ever had much of a chance to begin with. Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that he will endorse George Allen in his bid to reclaim the seat he lost to Jim Webb in 2006.

From Governor Bob McDonnell:

“I am honored to endorse my good friend George Allen in his campaign for the United States Senate. George is a visionary leader and a committed, principled conservative with a record of results. I first got to know George 20 years ago, when I helped to carry his revolutionary welfare reform initiative in Richmond. That legislation would go on to become the basis for historic federal welfare reform in Washington. That was no surprise. George has always looked for innovative and bold solutions to help improve the lives of our fellow citizens. He did that as Governor and as Senator. And we need George Allen’s optimistic, results-oriented leadership working for us in Washington again. These are challenging times. They demand leaders who we can trust, and who trust free people and free markets. Leaders dedicated to growing our economy, moving our nation closer to energy independence and helping the private sector create the good jobs our citizens need and deserve. George Allen is that leader. Maureen and I look forward to joining George and Susan on the campaign trail in the months ahead. This is a critically important campaign in the life of our Commonwealth and our country. There is no one better suited or better prepared to represent the people of Virginia in the United States Senate than George Allen.”

From George Allen:

“I am truly honored to have the support of Governor Bob McDonnell, a trusted, proven leader and long-time friend and teammate in achieving significant reforms for more job opportunities for families in Virginia. Under Governor McDonnell’s leadership, Virginia is showing the rest of America that the way to restart our economic engines is with pro-growth policies that encourage small businesses and entrepreneurs to invest, expand and hire. He understands the importance of having the right economic, energy and education policies to spur job growth and continue to make Virginia a leader in ideas and innovation for years to come. Governor McDonnell and I share the same pro-growth philosophy and strong Virginia values, and I am proud to have him as a leading member on our positive A-Team.”