US Sen. Mark Kirk Endorses Mitt Romney

(With additional reporting from Illinois Public Radio)

U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk is endorsing Mitt Romney for president.

Kirk said Monday that the former Massachusetts governor knows how to work with Democrats and independents. The Illinois senator touts Romney's work as the head of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Kirk said Romney would cut spending, promote economic growth and repeal the health care overhaul championed by President Barack Obama. Kirk told reporters Monday that Republicans need to pick the right candidate to beat Obama.

He said his endorsement could be a factor for Romney in Illinois.

"Because it looks like we will have a pretty big battle for the Republican primary across many states," Kirk said. "We're now going to have a battle in Illinois. Illinois normally had a primary that was too late. But this year I think the voice of Illinois voters is going to matter."

He argued that Illinois will matter in the race for the Republican nomination even though its primary is not until March 20. Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford says Romney's campaign is working hard in the state.

Romney donated to Kirk's campaign during his successful run for Senate last year.