President Bush, in a letter released to Republicans in the 24th Congressional District on Monday, endorsed incumbent Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, in the Sept. 10 primary.

Bush called Boehlert "an important member of our Republican team whose outstanding record deserves your vote."

In giving his support, Bush noted Boehlert's support for the war against terrorism, his help in passing a prescription drug bill for seniors and his support for the president's tax cut proposals.

"I am honored to have the president's endorsement," Boehlert said in a media release Tuesday. "I have long been a strong supporter of his and was a Bush delegate at the 2000 convention. I look forward to continuing to work with the president."

Through his spokeswoman, Republican challenger Dr. David Walrath of Auburn said the support was to be expected.

"It is not surprising," said Chris Potocki on Tuesday, since Boehlert is the incumbent. "Party leaders are expected to support the incumbents."

But she noted Bush supported former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan during the California gubernatorial primary, and he was defeated. So, she said, the Walrath campaign is not concerned about the endorsement.

Walrath is the nominee of the Conservative Party.

Also in the November race for the 24th congressional seat are Green Party nominee Mark Dunau of Hancock and Right To Life Party nominee Kathleen Peters of Waterloo.