Here’s the official statement of U.S. Sen. Kit Bond, R-Mo., who been Missouri’s most prominent backer of former Mayor Rudy Giuliani for president:

 ”Rudy challenged conventional wisdom – and conventional wisdom won.  I still think Rudy is the best candidate to deal with the important challenges of our time, but I respect the primary process and the voters’ choice. 

“When it comes to backing another nominee – I will look at the candidates and determine who will best serve Missouri and the nation’s interests.”