John Bolton gives Wagner his first 2012 endorsement

Former Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton lent his support Thursday to Republican Ann Wagner — another former ambassador — in her bid for the House in Missouri.

Bolton had publicly discussed running for president in 2012, but announced earlier this month he would not seek the nomination. Wagner is his first endorsement of the cycle.

Wagner, a former chairwoman of the Missouri GOP, also served as ambassador to Luxembourg. Her term as a diplomat under former President George W. Bush (R) slightly overlapped with Bolton's.

"She has defeated liberals for decades as a party leader and activist and now, for the first time, it is time for all conservatives to stand up for Ann and send her to Congress," Bolton said in announcing his endorsement.

Wagner is running for the seat now held by Rep. Todd Akin (R-Mo.), who is challenging Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) for her Senate seat.

Wagner's candidacy has attracted national attention, and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) is scheduled to hold a fundraiser for her on Sept. 27.