Ted Vogt, a GOP candidate for Legislative District 30, has a response to one of this week's Skinny items, "Neocon Cash," in which we simply pointed out that he'd gotten $2,200 from Donald Rumsfeld, Dick Cheney and others close to them.

Oh, and we pointed out that out of about $22,000 he'd raised for his campaign, he'd gotten less money—a mere $1,670—from actual Arizonans.

Anyway, here's a press release just sent out from his campaign. It needs no further comment.

Former SecDef Rumsfeld endorses Representative Ted Vogt

Representative Ted Vogt had no idea the support he received from former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld would cause such a commotion in the news (Tucson Weekly, 8/3/10). Representative Vogt worked in the office of Mr. Rumsfeld from 1997 to 2000, before Rumsfeld was appointed Secretary of Defense. The experience of working for such a dedicated public servant like Secretary Rumsfeld was one of the main inspirations for Vogt to serve in the U.S. Air Force as an intelligence officer from 2001 to 2006.

Rep. Vogt stated, “I am not surprised the liberal media in Tucson would attack me for being supported by a distinguished leader like Secretary Rumsfeld. I mentioned the recent news reports to Secretary Rumsfeld the other day and he responded by offering his formal endorsement, which I am honored to accept.”

Secretary Rumsfeld released the following statement in support of Rep. Vogt’s campaign:

“I’ve known Ted Vogt for close to fifteen years as both my personal assistant and later as an Air Force intelligence officer. Ted is a committed conservative and has consistently demonstrated personal integrity, selfless dedication to our country, and a strong commitment to public service.

In the days after September 11, 2001, Ted stepped up to help defend our nation in Afghanistan and the Middle East. Even after leaving active duty to pursue a law degree at the University of Arizona, Ted remained involved in public service by working in the White House and the U.S. Senate.

I am confident Ted’s conservative principles and demonstrated commitment to public service will serve Arizonans well. I’m honored to support him in his campaign for the Arizona State House.”