Former Rep. Porter backs Coulson

A key endorsement in the race for Rep. Mark Kirk's (R-Ill.) seat next month: former Rep. John Porter (R-Ill.), who preceded Kirk, is backing state Rep. Beth Coulson (R).

Coulson faces a primary with businessmen Bob Dold and Dick Green, a pair of political newcomers. She began the race as the frontrunner, but Dold and Green have asserted themselves with strong fundraising.

While it's not surprising to see Coulson getting another former elected official's support -- she also got former Gov. Jim Edgar (R) -- Porter served in the district for more than 20 years, until 2001, and remains well-known.

"Beth is the best fit for the 10th district, and I know her to be a dedicated leader" Porter said. "She is a strong fiscal conservative at a time when Washington, D.C., needs legislators who will restrain runaway federal spending."

The primary is Feb. 2, less than four weeks away.