Former President George H.W. Bush has endorsed Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) in the state’s gubernatorial race.

Bush said in a statement that he and Vitter have been close friends for years and that the conservative senator has been quite effective during his time in Washington.

“In the U.S. Senate, David has been an effective leader who has consistently fought for conservative values and the people of Louisiana,” said Bush. “His voting record is solidly conservative.”

“David also knows how to get things done.”

“I have every confidence that David would be a superb Governor, and help take a state I love to great heights of achievement and progress.”