Steelman picks up endorsement from anti-abortion group

State Treasurer Sarah Steelman's gubernatorial campaign received a boost today from the Susan B. Anthony List Candidate Fund, a group that supports anti-abortion political candidates.

The List is based in Virginia and receives contributions from a number of Democrats and Republicans according to OpenSecrets.org. In 2006, candidates received as much as $50,000 from the group. So far in the 2008 election cycle, though, no candidate has received more than $20,000.

Former Missouri US Senator Jim Talent (R) received the backing of the List in 2002 and 2006, the last major Missouri candidate to receive the group's support. In fact, Talent was the second highest funded candidate from the group in the 2002 election cycle according to OpenSecrets.org.

Steelman issued an email to supporters earlier today announcing the endorsement.

"The Susan B. Anthony List Candidate Fund is proud to endorse Sarah Steelman for Missouri Governor," List President Marjorie Dannenfelser said in a quote provided in Steelman's statement. "From her pro-life leadership in the State Senate to her Life is Precious Initiative today, Sarah Steelman is dedicated to representing all Missouri citizens, born and unborn. Sarah is a passionate advocate for women and unborn children and we are pleased to support her candidacy for Missouri Governor."

Steelman's release also touts legislation she co-sponsored during her tenure in the State Senate banning partial birth abortion, even though the courts later tossed out the legislation calling it unconstitutional.

Steelman will face US Congressman Kenny Hulshof in the August Republican primary for governor. The winner of the primary will then face presumptive Democratic nominee and current Missouri Attorney General Jay Nixon.