Fresh from the tubes, Lt. Col. Andrew Horne’s endorsement of Jack Conway in the race for the United States Senate:

I am endorsing Jack Conway for three specific reasons:

First, I believe Jack gives us the best shot of winning in 2010 especially since it is unlikely that Jim Bunning will survive his Party’s nominating process. Jack will proudly fight for our progressive ideals and we all now understand Democrats cannot win by simply being safe regional candidates. More importantly, we need a new brand of political leaders if Kentucky and our country is to make its way through the challenges of this century.

Second, as someone who proudly served in combat, in Iraq, it is clear to me that we need Senators who will ask the tough question and stand up to the powerful. Jack will be that kind of Senator. He is also the kind of man who will not let us forget the sacrifice our men and women made on the battlefield when they come home injured and in need of care. Accountability has taken a back seat to expediency in Washington over the past decade. Our new President gives us hope for a new day, but it is important to remember that Presidents serve relatively short terms and we have long-term challenges before us. As Attorney General and as a lawyer, Jack has proved he is willing to fight for the people and ask the tough questions.

Third, we need a Senator who will tackle a diverse set of issues. Kentucky has many challenges and while I admire Lt. Governor Mongiardo’s effort on health care it is important that our next United States Senator have a broad background and intellectual curiosity. The question is not what is known today but what are the issues we will deal with in this changing world. Jack’s experience in the governor’s office, as a private lawyer, and as Attorney General will be beneficial to Kentucky.

Nice. While not a scathing indictment of Daniel Mongiardo, Horne makes his position clear. And it’s not likely to make the Mongiardo crew happy.

(Before anyone suggests he’s short-sighted, Horne praised both candidates in the beginning of his message by saying both are talented and well-liked.)