The battle among GOP candidates vying for Christian right allegiance is taking another surprise turn with Rudy Giuliani picking up the endorsement of 700 Club host Pat Robertson.
Here is Robertson’s statement as released by the Giuliani campaign:

It is my pleasure to announce my support for America’s Mayor, Rudy Giuliani, a proven leader who is not afraid of what lies ahead and who will cast a hopeful vision for all Americans. Rudy Giuliani took a city that was in decline and considered ungovernable and reduced its violent crime, revitalized its core, dramatically lowered its taxes, cut through a welter of bureaucratic regulations, and did so in the spirit of bipartisanship which is so urgently needed in Washington today.

Robertson made no mention of Giuliani’s stand on social issues.
Here is what Giuliani said in response:

I am very encouraged by Pat’s support. His confidence in me means a lot. His experience and advice will be a great asset to me and my campaign.

Robertson, founder of the Christian Coalition and himself a former presidential candidate, is one of the most influential old line culture warriors. His endorsement is a huge prize for Giuliani, who badly needed to bolster his standing among evangelicals who are uneasy, to put it mildly, with the former New York mayor’s record on abortion and gay marriage. Robertson’s blessing will surely help in that regard.
But the loyalties of Christian right leaders remain divided. Mitt Romney has landed some top tier endorsements in recent days. And now there are reports that former candidate Sam Brownback, a darling of social conservatives, is about to throw his coveted support to John McCain.
The waters get muddier and muddier

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