But his stated support for a Libertarian ticket is notable, given the importance the military has on the economy in his southeastern 2nd congressional district.
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Rep. Scott Rigell, R-Virginia, will vote for Libertarian Gary Johnson for president, adding to the list of Republicans breaking with GOP nominee Donald Trump.
He is the first GOP member of Congress to back the former New Mexico governor.
Weld is a former two-term governor of MA.
The “Never Trump” Movement and other disaffected Republicans reportedly believe this will be the week that George Bush Sr, George W. Bush, Mitt Romney as well as other mainstream Republicans endorse Libertarian Gary Johnson and running-mate William Weld, according to The Santa Monica Observer. His colleague in the House, Richard Hanna of NY, gave an endorsement to Hillary Clinton last week.
Gov. Susana Martinez has been critical of some of Trump’s more inflammatory comments and has not yet endorsed the Republican candidate.
Rigell, who is retiring after three terms in the House, made his endorsement known in an interview published Saturday in the New York Times. Torraco says it was her positive feelings for Johnson from his days as governor that led to her decision.
Party bylaws frown upon public pronouncements against Republican candidates.
Since announcing his intention to run earlier this year, Johnson has been encouraging voters to “Google Gary Johnson” in an attempt to appeal to voters who may be hesitant to vote for Clinton or Trump. Fortunately, recent polling does show Johnson taking right wing votes away from Trump though.
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The first presidential debate is scheduled from September 26 – and if Johnson makes it on the stage, he could have a significant impact on the race.
