JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – Missouri’s former Republican U.S. Sen. John Danforth is endorsing GOP candidate Eric Greitens for governor.

Danforth on Thursday touted Greitens’ service as a Navy SEAL officer, as well as his humanitarian work and his leadership at a nonprofit that’s aimed at helping veterans. Greitens’ opponent is Democratic Attorney General Chris Koster.

Danforth previously backed Republican gubernatorial candidate and former Auditor Tom Schweich, who killed himself last year. Danforth has been an outspoken critic of negative politics and, during his eulogy at Schweich’s funeral, denounced political bullying.

The election is Nov. 8.