Former Gov. Tommy Thompson heading John Kasich's Wisconsin effort

MADISON — Former Gov. Tommy Thompson will be leading Ohio Gov. John Kasich's efforts in Wisconsin.

Kasich's campaign announced Thompson's leadership role on Monday.

Thompson announced his backing of Kasich last week. Thompson says in a statement that Kasich is "the dedicated, responsible and compassionate executive leader our country needs."

Kasich faces a critical primary on Tuesday in his home state of Ohio. Wisconsin's primary is three weeks later on April 5.

Thompson was elected governor four times in Wisconsin and left his final term early to serve as U.S. Health and Human Services secretary under President George W. Bush. Thompson ran for U.S. Senate in 2012 and lost to Democrat Tammy Baldwin.