SPRINGFIELD -- The former chairman of the Illinois Republican Party has won the endorsement of a top Republican lawmaker in the crowded GOP race for governor.

In an announcement Thursday, House Minority Leader Tom Cross, R-Oswego, said he is backing Chicago businessman Andy McKenna over six others vying for the nomination.

Cross, a 16-year legislative veteran who has led the House Republicans since 2003, described McKenna as a "calm and steady" leader who is needed at a time of economic uncertainty.

"We view it as a great boost," McKenna said during a stop at the Capitol.

McKenna's endorsement came in the wake of state Sen. Kirk Dillard of Hinsdale getting the endorsement of former Gov. Jim Edgar.

State Sen. Bill Brady of Bloomington, meanwhile, has picked up endorsements state Reps. Mike Bost of Murphysboro, John Cavaletto of Salem, Shane Cultra of Onarga, Don Moffitt of Gilson, Rich Myers of Colchester, David Reis of Willow Hill, Keith Sommer of Morton and Ron Stephens of Greenville.

"I have great respect for my legislative colleague Tom Cross, but his support for Andy McKenna in the race for governor is just the opinion of one man," Brady said in a statement.

Another candidate, DuPage County Board Chairman Bob Schillerstrom, said it is not surprising Cross would support a "longtime party insider" in the race for governor.

"Why would those in power embrace change if they can have more of the same?" Schillerstrom added.

Others vying for the GOP nomination include former Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan, political consultant Dan Proft of Chicago and newcomer Adam Andrzejewski of Hinsdale.