LEWISTON — Lewiston Mayor Bob Macdonald said on Monday that he is supporting Bruce Poliquin in the race for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District in 2014.

Poliquin, a Republican and former state treasurer, is running for the open seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, a Democrat who is running for governor.

“I encourage you to also support Bruce,” Macdonald said in a written statement. “He’s an honest and hardworking Franco-American whose grandfather was born and raised in Lewiston. Bruce was the best state treasurer that Maine has ever had.”

Macdonald praised Poliquin’s track record and his business background.

“Bruce Poliquin is the only candidate for Congress with the business experience and proven track record as Maine state treasurer to help fix the fiscal mess in Washington that is hurting our families here in Lewiston and Androscoggin County,” Macdonald said.

Poliquin is among a host of candidates seeking the seat. Also running for the Republican nomination are former state Senate president and small businessman Kevin Raye and Blaine Richardson, a retired Navy officer.

Democrats seeking the nomination include state Sen. Troy Jackson of Allagash, state Sen. Emily Cain of Orono and Navy veteran Alden Smith of Sangerville.

Poliquin’s campaign touted Macdonald’s endorsement, noting the mayor won re-election in November with 61 percent of the vote and that Lewiston is one of the largest cities in the 2nd Congressional District.

Poliquin thanked Macdonald for the support.

“Rather than kicking the can down the street, (Macdonald) has a track record of tackling the toughest issues facing his community,”Poliquin said in a written statement.  “Families across Maine want real solutions to the real problems that impact their lives. Government can be an agent of positive change if courageous individuals like Bob Macdonald do what is right.”