Gov. Bill Richardson has made his second big endorsement of the day, backing Public Regulations Commissioner Ben Ray Luján for the 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary, as was expected.

"As someone who knows this district well — as a Congressman and now as Governor — I believe Ben Ray Luján is the most qualified candidate and is best prepared to represent the diverse communities that stretch across northern and eastern New Mexico," Governor Bill Richardson said in a press release from the Luján campaign.

Richardson served as the U.S. Rep. for the 3rd Congressional District from 1983 to 1997. He left the seat to become U.S. ambassador to the United Nations under President Bill Clinton.

Earlier in the day, Harry Teague announced that Gov. Richardson has endorsed his campaign as well. Teague is a Democrat in the 2nd Congressional District.

"I am also proud to endorse a candidate who has taken the high road against negative and unnecessary political attacks from some of his opponents," Gov. Richardson said.

"I am proud to have Governor Richardson’s endorsement," said Luján in his press release. "In Congress, I will carry on the tradition that Governor Richardson and Congressman Udall set of standing up for the people of New Mexico."

The seat is being vacated by Udall, who is running for the Senate. Combined, Richardson and Udall have held the seat for all but two years of the existence of the district. Republican Bill Redmond served from 1997 to 1999.

Update, 2:30 pm:

The following is a quote from Don Wiviott, Lujan’s main primary opponent, campaign spokesman Webster Cash.

"While Wiviott has nothing but respect for the Governor, this endorsement comes as no surprise. It is well known that the Speaker and the Governor have a close relationship, and that Don Wiviott is not a political insider or a career politician. The only endorsement that matters in this race is the support of Third District voters."