Republican State Representative Jonathan Stickland has endorsed Dallas businessman Chris Ekstrom in the race to replace U.S. Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon).

Stickland, who represents District 92 in the Texas House of Representatives, announced his support for Ekstrom on Thursday, becoming the second prominent conservative politician to back the businessman, along with Alabama U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks. In a statement on Twitter, Stickland called Ekstrom a “conservative patriot.”

“I’ve known conservative patriot Chris Ekstrom for years and I’m proud to endorse his campaign,” Stickland wrote. “He will fight for us in D.C.”

Ekstrom is running in a crowded Republican primary field that also features Elaine Hays, Richard Herman, Kevin McInturff, Josh Winegarner, Jamie Culley, Vance Snider, and Monique Worthy. More candidates could also enter the race, as filing runs through December 9.