PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- General Treasurer Frank Caprio has lined up the endorsement of a third Democratic town committee in his quest to become governor.

The Bristol Democratic Town Committee unanimously endorsed Caprio this week over his likely primary opponent, Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch.

Verifying the vote after it was announced by the Caprio campaign, Bristol Town Council chairman Kenneth Marshall said the Democratic committee chose Caprio based on his "successful track record of proven accomplishments,'' including his foresight in keeping the state of Rhode Island's investments clear of the sinking sub-prime housing market.

The manager of a plumbing and air-conditioning business, Marshall said the committee was also impressed with Caprio's ideas for investing "economic development'' dollars - and perhaps even taxpayer-backed bonds - in what he called the "economic engine of the state,'' and more specifically, small businesses.

The Caprio campaign did not respond to questions about the potential bond proposal.

In recent weeks, Caprio also picked up endorsements from the Smithfield and Foster Democratic town committees.

Lynch spokesman Adam Roach said: "Regrettably, Patrick was not invited to compete for the endorsement and regrets not being given the opportunity to earn the endorsement of the Bristol Democratic Town Committee.''

But, "Patrick looks forward to sharing his message of jobs and strengthening middle class families throughout ... the State in the weeks and months to come. This is a long campaign and there are a lot of cities and towns. Patrick is sure both candidates will wind up with their share of endorsements.''