Priebus backs Vukmir in Wisconsin GOP primary

BY BEN KAMISAR - 01/22/18 09:16 AM EST

Former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus is endorsing state Sen. Leah Vukmir in the tough Wisconsin GOP Senate primary.

The backing from the former Republican National Committee chairman and one of the most noteworthy Republicans in Wisconsin is a big get for Vukmir, who is locked in an increasingly-harsh primary against Kevin Nicholson, a Marine corps veteran who is new to Republican politics.

Speaking on 1130 WISN radio in Wisconsin, Priebus, a former Wisconsin GOP chairman, lauded Vukmir as "constantly pushing a conservative agenda" and said she would match up well against Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin.

"She was there every step of the way building what we built in Wisconsin," Priebus said. "She deserves credit but she's highly qualified and without question the best choice for U.S. Senate.

In explaining his endorsement, Priebus blasted Nicholson's past as a Democrat — he served as the head of the College Democrats of America before his experiences prompted him to switch parties. But Priebus framed Nicholson as a young man in a hurry, calling on him to prove his GOP chops before jumping into a major statewide race.

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http://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/370068-priebus-backs-vukmir-in-wisconsin-gop-primary