Republican U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro formally endorsed on Thursday former state Sen. Sue Serino to become Dutchess County executive. 

Serino launched her campaign for the office earlier this year. Molinaro held the Dutchess County executive post from 2012 until January, when he was sworn into a Hudson Valley House seat. 

“I am proud to endorse Sue Serino for Dutchess County Executive. Sue is a longtime friend and has been a trusted confidant to me throughout my time as Dutchess County Executive," Molinaro said. "Sue will be a familiar face to County residents as someone who grew up here, represented Dutchess in the State Senate, served as a County Legislator, and operated a local business. Sue's track record of success as a public servant and business owner, and independent approach to solving problems will make her a perfect fit to be Duchess's next County Executive. Sue Serino cares. She listens. She leads. She has my full support."

Serino lost her bid for another term in the state Senate last November after she was defeated by Democratic state Sen. Michelle Hinchey for a redrawn Hudson Valley Senate district.