Shawnee , KS – State Senator Mary Pilcher Cook, Republican of Shawnee, has announced her support for former State Rep. Patricia Lightner, Republican of Olathe, in the race for the 3rd Congressional District.

“The candidate who wins this election will be for the principles our country was founded on – and against government intrusion and control. Patricia was in the race from the beginning, willing to fight for the principles of limited government and individual responsibility. I have decided to endorse Patricia, because getting in the race from the start revealed Patricia’s motivation to run was not based on opportunism, but that instead she was willing to do the right thing at the right time, undergoing personal sacrifice and willing to put forth the hard work that would be involved,” said Pilcher Cook, who represents the 10th Senate District.

Lightner said she was honored to receive Senator Pilcher Cook’s endorsement.

“Mary has been an incredible force for the principles of limited government, economic freedom, and individual liberty during her entire time in the Kansas Legislature. She has shown consistent, courageous leadership -- most recently in defense of Kansas sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment and in her proposal for a Kansas Health Care Freedom Amendment. She also understands what it takes to win the hearts and minds of voters – and that is hard work at the grassroots level. Mary's endorsement of my candidacy is a tremendous honor, and I am extremely grateful for it,” said Lightner.

The 3rd District of Kansas is now an open seat following Dennis Moore’s decision not to seek re-election. The Republican Primary will be on August 3, 2010 and the general election on November 2, 2010.