Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins lands endorsements of top GOP House leaders

The top two Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives - Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Minority Whip Steve Scalise - have endorsed Louisiana GOP 3rd District Congressman Clay Higgins for reelection.

“Their support reflects our strong performance as an office ... for Louisiana and the entire nation," Higgins, of Lafayette, said in a statement. "I will continue to stand on conservative core principles as we fight to restore America’s strength, security, and prosperity.”

The election is Nov. 8.

Higgins' announcement comes on the same morning his Republican opponent Holden Hoggatt announced endorsements from three past Louisiana members of Congress, including Democratic former U.S. Sen. John Breaux, Democratic former U.S. Rep. Chris John and former Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Boustany.

Higgins, who is seeking a fourth term, has also been endorsed by former President Donald Trump and Louisiana colleagues U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson of Benton and U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, all Republicans, as well as Republican state Attorney General Jeff Landry.

"Clay is a champion for border security, American energy independence, public safety and our conservative values," McCarthy, of California, said in a statement. "Throughout his Congressional tenure, Clay has proven himself to be a tireless advocate and effective representative for South Louisiana."

Scalise, of Metairie, said he and Higgins "have worked together to advance Louisiana’s interests in the U.S. House of Representatives."

“Clay is a strong conservative, an effective legislator, and a fierce advocate for the 3rd District," Scalise said.

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1. 

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Top House GOP leaders Kevin McCarthy, Steve Scalise endorse Clay Higgins