Former President George Bush Senior has endorsed John McCain in his bid to be the Republicans' presidential nominee.
Mr Bush described Mr McCain's character as "forged in the crucible of war" and said he would carry conservative values to the White House in November's vote.
The endorsement, which may help unite the party behind Mr McCain, comes ahead of bi-party primary votes in Wisconsin and a Democratic primary in Hawaii.
Mr McCain is leading the Republican race, ahead of Mike Huckabee.
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However, Mr McCain has not been popular with more conservative Republicans because of his relatively moderate views on abortion, immigration reform and gay marriage.
'Character and values'
Speaking in Texas with Mr McCain by his side, Mr Bush Senior said he believed Mr McCain was the best equipped to lead the country.
"No-one is better prepared to lead our nation at these trying times than Senator John McCain," Mr Bush said.
"His character was forged in the crucible of war. His commitment to America is beyond any doubt. But most importantly, he has the right character and values to guide our nation."
Mr Bush said Mr McCain's record demonstrated his commitment to conservative principles and also praised his ability to reach across the aisle to the Democrats when needed.
Mr McCain said he was honoured to have the support of the former president.
The endorsement comes only four days after that of Mitt Romney, the former contender for the nomination who dropped out of the race after disappointing results on Super Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have been campaigning for the Democratic Party nomination in Wisconsin over the weekend.
Both candidates are also focusing their efforts on Texas and Ohio, which will stage primary elections on 4 March.
Mrs Clinton is trailing Barack Obama with 1,220 delegates to his 1,275.
(BBC)
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