Republican U.S. House candidate Vance Snider has received the endorsement of King County Sheriff Mike McWhirter in his race to replace U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon).

On Tuesday, Snider announced the endorsement by McWhirter, marking his first endorsement by an elected official. In a statement from the Snider campaign, McWhirter said he supports Vance Snider, as he feels the Republican candidate is the “right choice” for the law enforcement community in the 13th District.

Snider also echoed those sentiments in his statement, calling himself a “proud supporter” of the law enforcement community.

“I have always been a proud supporter of our Law Enforcement community, even when I have a lead foot,” Snider said. “Law Enforcement continues to keep our society safe by keeping drugs and crime off the streets. When elected, I will draft legislation to further protect the safety and welfare of our Law Enforcement Officers not only in TX-13, but across the United States.”

Snider is one of 15 Republicans hoping to replace Thornberry in 2020. Voters will decide this primary on March 3, 2020.