U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, on Thursday endorsed state Rep. Gabe Evans in the GOP primary in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District.

Evans is running against Weld County Commissioner Scott James, a former chairman of the Weld County GOP, for the seat held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo of Thornton.

Covering parts of Adams, Weld and Larimer counties, the state’s newest congressional district is classified as a toss-up by national election forecasters and could be home to one of the most competitive House races in the country next year.

“Gabe Evans is a combat veteran and former police officer who will fight for conservative values,” Cotton said in a statement released by Evans’ campaign. “He’s never backed down from a challenge and I know he will be a partner in Congress in keeping Colorado and our country safe.”

A Harvard-educated attorney and Army combat veteran, Cotton served one term in the U.S. House before his election to the U.S. Senate in 2014. Before winning reelection in 2020 by a wide margin over a Libertarian opponent, Cotton was considered for a nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court by former President Donald Trump. Cotton was rumored to be a potential 2024 presidential candidate but didn’t get in the race. He serves on the Senate Armed Services, Judiciary and Intelligence committees.

It’s the third endorsement Evans has received from a congressional Republican since the Fort Lupton Republican launched his campaign last month. Earlier, U.S. Reps. Jack Bergman of Michigan and August Pfluger of Texas threw their support behind the first-term state lawmaker.

Evans said in a statement that he is honored to receive Cotton’s support.

“I look forward to working with Sen. Cotton to stop Joe Biden’ disastrous agenda by securing America’s Southern border, lowering the cost of living, reducing crime, ensuring a strong military, and defending America’s interests,” Evans said.

Both major parties’ congressional campaign committees have targeted Caraveo, a pediatrician and former state legislator, who won election last year by less than 1% of the vote.