This endorsement was not a surprise given who else is in the race. But it’s still a good get by Lenar Whitney. The former state representative has been trying to make the argument that she is the most conservative candidate in the race.

Here’s the press release:

The Republican Party of Louisiana today announced its official endorsement of former State Representative Lenar Whitney for Public Service Commissioner in District 2.

“Lenar Whitney is the most conservative Republican in the race for Public Service Commissioner,” Republican Party of Louisiana Chairman Roger Villere said. “The Republican Party of Louisiana and I encourage all conservatives in Louisiana to vote for Lenar Whitney in October.”

Lenar Whitney has served as a member of the RNC as the National Committeewoman from Louisiana since March of 2012. Lenar Whitney served in the Louisiana House of Representatives in District 53 from 2012-2016, and is a lifelong Republican. She was the first Republican as well as the first woman elected to District 53.

Lenar Whitney has not only been a strong supporter and leader in the Republican Party, but she was consistently one of the most conservative members in the Louisiana House of Representatives, standing up for our conservative values.

“With Governor John Bel Edwards’ handpicked appointee, Damon Baldone, switching parties at the last minute to run as a Republican, we cannot afford to let him continue to hold this seat,” said Chairman Villere. “We must ensure that a true conservative serves with our other tremendous conservative members, Public Service Commission Chairman Eric Skrmetta and former LAGOP Chairman Mike Francis.”

“Lenar Whitney’s record speaks for itself,” said Chairman Villere. “Republicans in Louisiana recognize the need for a strong voice on the Public Service Commission that will serve with honesty, integrity, and conservative principles. ”

It’s an easy decision for the LAGOP to make to endorse Whitney. Damon Baldone switched parties on qualifying day and Craig Greene endorsed John Bel Edwards for governor.

Will this give Whitney a boost? Sure it should. It would help her lock down Republican partisans.

Will it be enough? We’ll see but it definitely an endorsement she would rather have than one she didn’t get.