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SALT LAKE CITY — Ann Romney endorsed Utah GOP congressional candidate Mia Love Friday, calling her "an example for Washington."
The endorsement is apparently the first for the wife of presidential candidate Mitt Romney, at least this election cycle. Their son, Josh, who lives in Millcreek, backed Love before she won her party's nomination at the state Republican convention in April.
Love is receiving national attention for her attempt to unseat six-term Rep. Jim Matheson, the only Democratic member of Utah's congressional delegation. If Love succeeds, she would become the first African-American Republican in Congress.
Ann Romney's endorsement cited Love's record in Saratoga Springs government, first as a councilwoman and now as mayor.
"Women across the country are concerned for our children's future," Ann Romney said. "Will our children be able to find jobs and will they be faced with burdensome debt? Mia's record of reducing spending and making government more accountable to the taxpayers should be an example for Washington. With leaders like her, we can help ensure that our children and grandchildren have bright futures."
Love said she was honored to have Ann Romney's support.
"She understands the importance of fostering an environment for job creation and making government more responsible. These are the same principles that I have fought for as mayor and as a councilwoman, and they are the same principles that I will bring to Washington."
Love and Matheson are squaring off in the state's new congressional district, which includes portions of Salt Lake and Utah counties. Matheson is currently representing the 2nd District.
A Deseret News/KSL-TV poll released last week put Matheson ahead of Love among 4th District voters, 53 percent to 38 percent. The Dan Jones & Associates poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 5.1 percent.
