Former Calif. gov endorses state insurance commissioner in GOP bid to succeed Schwarzenegger

Former gov backs Poizner in CA gubernatorial race

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Republican California gubernatorial hopeful Steve Poizner says he’s won the backing of former California Gov. George Deukmejian.

Poizner’s campaign told The Associated Press about the endorsement Monday ahead of a video announcement planned for Tuesday.

The endorsement marks the latest development in the GOP race since former congressman Tom Campbell dropped his bid for the nomination last week in favor of a run for U.S. Senate.

It’s a needed boost for Poizner, the state insurance commissioner who has trailed billionaire former eBay chief executive Meg Whitman in polls and fundraising.

Deukmejian is one of only three living California GOP governors. Former Gov. Pete Wilson is chairman of Whitman’s campaign. And Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who often battles with members of his party, is unlikely to endorse any of the candidates soon.