A group that is pushing a backup program of state and federalsupports for insurer catastrophe losses announced that Republicanpresidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani voiced his support yesterday forthe establishment of a national catastrophe fund.

ProtectingAmerica.org said the former New York mayor, nowcampaigning in Florida, has a panel advising him on naturalcatastrophe response and recovery measures.

The group said Mr. Giuliani's catastrophe advisory committeeindicated that if elected, he would sign the catastrophe fund billthat has been endorsed by ProtectingAmerica.org and passed theHouse of Representatives by a bipartisan vote in November.

“Giuliani would sign the Klein/Mahoney bill or similarlegislation,” according to Florida Attorney General BillMcCollum.

ProtectingAmerica.org noted that Democratic hopefuls, Sens.Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, have also endorsed the plan.

Back on the Republican side, former Sen. Fred Thompson hasindicated his support for regional consortiums, while formerMassachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has said he has an open mind on thesubject.