Bauer endorses McCain

John McCain was endorsed today by conservative activist Gary Bauer -- a blessing the Republican front-runner said shows the party is uniting behind him.

"John McCain has dedicated his life to defending human rights around the world, including the rights of the unborn," said Bauer, a prominent anti-abortion leader. "I admire his consistent 24-year pro-life record and demonstrated commitment to the values that keep our families and communities strong. John McCain alone has the experience, character and credibility to lead as commander in chief on day one and defeat the transcendent threat of our time -- radical Islamic extremism. I am proud to support John McCain for president."

McCain said in a statement, "I have long admired Gary's commitment and passion for our shared pro-life and pro-family values. Gary has always been a forceful, unapologetic advocate for the sanctity of life and traditional marriage, judicial restraint and a strong American foreign policy based on our values. I am honored to have Gary Bauer's support, and his advice and counsel will be critical as we continue to bring our Party together for victory in November."

McCain, with a huge lead in delegates over Mike Huckabee, is seeking to all but close the deal Tuesday in primaries in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.