Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- Gary Bauer, the former Republican presidential candidate and chairman of pro-family group America's Values, issued an endorsement of John McCain for president on Monday. The pro-life advocate cited McCain's opposition to abortion -- in contrast to the pro-abortion positions of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama -- as a main reason.

"John McCain has dedicated his life to defending human rights around the world, including the rights of the unborn," Bauer told LifeNews.com in a statement.

"I admire his consistent 24-year pro-life record and demonstrated commitment to the values that keep our families and communities strong," Bauer added. "I am proud to support John McCain for president."

McCain said he appreciated the support of the former president of the Family Research Council.

"I have long admired Gary's commitment and passion for our shared pro-life and pro-family values," the Arizona senator said in receiving the endorsement.

"Gary has always been a forceful, unapologetic advocate for the sanctity of life [and] judicial restraint," he added. "I am honored to have Gary Bauer's support, and his advice and counsel will be critical as we continue to bring our party together for victory in November."

McCain has a solid voting record opposing abortion and has called for overturning Roe v. Wade and judges who would be more likely to do so.

Obama and Clinton both strongly support unlimited abortion paid for at taxpayer expense and have promised to only appoint Supreme Court judges who will keep all abortions legal for another 35 years.