A current U.S. Senator, and former presidential candidate, has made an endorsement in a local legislative race. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz has endorsed incumbent J.R. Claeys for reelection to the Kansas House of Representatives.

In a media release Cruz says “I’m proud to endorse J.R. Claeys in his re-election campaign to the Kansas State House,” said Cruz. “He is a passionate fighter for the people of Kansas and dedicated to promoting the conservative principles that will keep Kansas and America strong, safe, and free.”

Sen. Cruz was the winner of the Kansas Republican Presidential Caucuses in March, winning Saline County by a wide margin.

Claeys, who has represented the 69th District since 2013, is being challenged by Democrat Gerrett Morris.