Auto dealer Scott Rigell (R) continues to rack up big-name support for his campaign against Rep. Glenn Nye (D).

Rigell will appear at a Thursday news conference with Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms, whose city is the population center of the 2nd district.

Rigell already has support from former Rep. Thelma Drake (R), who lost to Nye in 2008, and from Jeanine McDonnell, the eldest daughter of Gov. Bob McDonnell (R). The governor hasn’t formally endorsed, but it’s well-known in local political circles that he and Rigell are close friends.

Rigell is regarded as the frontrunner in the June 8 primary election.