Rick Santorum Gets Support from Leading N.H. Conservative

Republican presidential hopeful U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum won a key endorsement in New Hampshire as social conservative activist and former gubernatorial candidate Karen Testerman deserted U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann to back Santorum's bid for the GOP nomination.

"Since meeting Rick Santorum a decade ago, I have observed his unwavering support for the core values of family, faith and freedom, Testerman said in a statement.He is the one candidate who is casting a vision for America beyond eight years.Not only does Rick Santorum's record match his rhetoric, I am confident that he is the one who is ready to lead America to greatness. I look forward to working with him toward the New Hampshire first-in-the-nation primary."

"I am honored to receive Karen's endorsement ..., Santorum said. Karen has been a steadfast defender of life, family and the foundational values that make our nation great, and she has been a leader for those values in good times and in bad. Karen understands the magnitude of this election, and her vote of confidence tonight is truly an honor.I am excited to work with her as we move toward victory in the first-in-the-nation primary."