MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Retail Association, one of Alabama’s largest business groups, announced their endorsement of Chief Justice Chuck Malone in his bid for election to a full term in the 2012 election cycle.

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Alabama Retail Association,” Malone said in a statement released by his campaign. “This group represents thousands of retailers, large and small, from all over the state who have an interest in the integrity of the courts and the prosperity of our state. I am proud to have their support for my campaign as I continue to spread my message of justice, fairness, and the importance of a fiscally conservative budgeting approach in our judicial system.”

This announcement marks the latest in a string of major judicial endorsements for Malone. He previously earned the endorsements of the Alabama Civil Justice Reform Committee (ACJRC), Alabama Farmer’s Federation’s Farm-PAC, and the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama.

Malone, a lifelong Republican, served as Chief of Staff for Governor Robert Bentley prior to becoming Chief Justice. He was elected Circuit Judge in 2000 and was twice elected Presiding Circuit Judge during more than a decade on the bench.

Malone is facing Mobile County Circuit Judge Charlie Graddick and former Chief Justice Roy Moore in the Republican primary March 13.