Mt. Pleasant, SC - Former Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) announced today that his campaign for president has received the endorsement of Lancaster County, SC Councilman Cotton Cole.

Cotton Cole said: "I am supporting Senator Santorum because he is the best candidate to lead our nation to better times.  Rick is passionate and trustworthy - and the people of Lancaster County are looking for a leader who believes in them and shares their values - Rick is that man.  I believe having Rick as our President will get our economy back on its feet, which is crucial here in our county and this great nation.  Rick is the only Presidential Candidate to travel to Lancaster County, and I am proud to endorse him and call him a friend.  Rick Santorum is the only true conservative in this race, built from the ground up, based on morals and beliefs, with a tried and true track record."

Senator Santorum said: "Cotton is a true conservative community leader in Lancaster County.  The people of Lancaster County know Cotton and trust his judgment, which is why it is an honor to receive his vote of confidence and support today.  I am looking forward to working with Cotton as we build the campaign organization to win the First-in-the-South primary in South Carolina."

Cotton Cole is serving his first term as a member of the Lancaster County Council representing District #3. He retired as Fire Chief with the City of Lancaster Fire Department in 2002. He now owns and operates Cotton Cole Auctions at the Old Buford Feedmill. He is a graduate of Buford High School and is a member of the First Baptist Church. He and his wife, Cindy, have two grown children, Hollee and Nicolas. They are very proud grandparents of their grandson, Cole.