Paul/Photo by U.S. House of Represenatives

Former Texas Congressman and Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul has thrown his support behind former State Sen. Don Huffines in the race for Texas Governor.

In a statement released on Thursday, Paul announced his support for Huffines, who is currently challenging Gov. Greg Abbott for the Republican nomination for his job in 2022. Paul praised Huffines as the right candidate for Texas and called on voters to get out and demand a change.

“I’m joining thousands of Texans in supporting Don Huffines for governor of Texas,” Paul said. “This race will only be won if Texans rise up and demand a governor who will actually defend our God-given liberties. Texas is worth fighting for.”

Huffines responded to the endorsement by praising Paul, and said he will never stop fighting for liberty in his campaigns as a public servant.

“My family and I have been blessed by the Paul family’s friendship for many years and are grateful for their support,” Huffines said. “Dr. Paul’s example of consistent, principled leadership has been an inspiration to me throughout my life and especially during my time serving in the Texas Senate. Like Ron Paul, I will never cease fighting for liberty.”

Paul served as a congressman for Texas from 1979 through 1985, and again from 1997 to 2013. He was a Republican candidate for President in 2008 and 2012, and was the Libertarian Party’s presidential nominee in 1988. Paul’s son, U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) has already endorsed Huffines’ primary campaign.