State Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Eagle, has received an endorsement in his race against Vaughn Ward for the right to face Democrat Walt Minnick in the November general election.

The endorsement comes from Idaho County Commissioner Skip Brandt, who ran for the same seat in a six-way primary in 2006 when it was vacated by then-Rep. Butch Otter, who left to run for governor.  Brandt failed in his bid secure the seat when Republican Bill Sali won the race with 26 percent of the vote.  (See who Sali endorsed in the 2010 race here)

Here is what Brandt said about the 2010 congressional race and why he picked Labrador:

I do not make many endorsements of political candidates. However, with the stakes so high in the 2010 election, I believe it is imperative that I tell you my choice in the 1st congressional district race.  We must elect a leader who will fight for the policies and principles that promote fiscal discipline and strong family values. That is why I am endorsing Raul Labrador for the 1st congressional seat.

It is time again that Idaho had a real leader in the U.S. House. Real leadership is not simply about voting up or down on the issues.  Real leadership requires the ability to persuade your colleagues to follow your lead even when it is politically difficult or unpopular.  Raul Labrador is not just talking about being a leader or being a conservative, he has a track record of conservative accomplishments to prove it.

Idaho needs a Congressman with the guts and political will to stand against the upper echelon of the political system while also standing up for our principles. So please join me in supporting the next Congressman from the 1st congressional district in Idaho, Raul Labrador.

Earlier in the week, Ward received his own endorsement in the race.  See who believes Ward will "carry the conservative banner to Washington and ... rein in the reckless growth of government" here.