Getty Sen. Toomey expected to endorse Marco Rubio

Pennsylvania Sen. Pat Toomey is expected to endorse Marco Rubio, according to three sources familiar with the plans.

The move comes just days away from the New Hampshire primary, as Rubio is taking steps to consolidate the support of the GOP establishment. Earlier this week, Rubio won the backing of South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, a much-sought-after endorser. Rubio sources say to expect more announcements of support from congressional Republicans in the days ahead.


The rollouts are designed to generate momentum for Rubio, who finished strongly in the Iowa caucuses and is hoping for a similar showing in New Hampshire. The Florida senator hopes to unify the Republican establishment around him and cut off avenues of support for his competitors in the mainstream lane of the GOP primary — Jeb Bush, Chris Christie, and John Kasich. Many in the party hierarchy would like to soon coalesce around one candidate and halt insurgents Donald Trump and Ted Cruz.

Toomey, a swing-state Republican and former president of the anti-tax Club for Growth, is facing a competitive reelection bid in 2016. Those close to the Pennsylvania senator say he’s deeply concerned about who represents the top of the ticket for the GOP.

It was not exactly clear, the sources said, when the official endorsement would be made, but they said it could come as soon as Wednesday or Thursday.

Spokespersons for Toomey and Rubio did not respond to requests for comment.

Earlier on Thursday, Rubio announced the backing of Arkansas Reps. Steve Womack and Rick Crawford. Along with Toomey's move, their support will put Rubio ahead of Bush in the race to lock down major endorsements, according to FiveThirtyEight's endorsement tracker.