Political newcomer Nomiki Konst has dropped out of the race for a full term representing former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords' southern Arizona congressional district.

Sen. Frank Antenori, a Tucson Republican, received a boost today after the Senate’s most influential member said he’s behind his candidacy for Congress. “I can’t vote there, but I’d vote for Frank Antenori,” Senate President Steve Pierce told the Arizona Capitol Times today.

Sen. Paula Aboud, who once replaced former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in the Arizona Senate, today announced her campaign for the seat recently vacated by the congresswoman.