NORWICH, Conn. (AP) _ Former Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz  is out campaigning for Connecticut Senate candidate and U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy, months after losing to him in a sometimes contentious Democratic primary.

Bysiewicz participated Saturday in a “Women for Murphy” bus tour, making stops in Norwich, Branford, Fairfield and West Hartford.

She was joined by other Democrats, including Rep. Rosa DeLauro and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman. Feminist Majority Foundation President Eleanor Smeal was also on hand.

Bysiewicz is speaking on Murphy’s behalf at various events. Calling herself a “very strong Democrat,” she offered on primary night to help Murphy in the general election.

Murphy faces Republican Linda McMahon. While McMahon says she supports abortion rights and women’s health care, Waterford state Rep. Betsy Ritter called Murphy “the best woman in the race.”

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)