Palin Backs Election Bids of 3 Iraq War Vets

Meredith Jessup | March 30, 2010 4:03 PM

On her Facebook page yesterday, Sarah Palin announced her official endorsement of a trio of Iraq War veterans who are running for Congress. The former Alaska governor and vice presidential contender is supporting Republican candidates Adam Kizinger, Vaughn Ward and Allen West.

Palin wrote, "America, if you love your freedom, thank a vet! And if you’re looking for leaders who believe in integrity, service, and country first, look to our veterans."

Kizinger is challenging freshman Rep. Debbie Halvorson, D-Ill., and has also received an endorsement from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).

Ward is a former member of the John McCain campaign team and plans to face freshman Rep. Walt Minnick, D-Idaho, in a largely conservative district.

Finally, West is running against Rep. Ron Klein, D-Fla. This will be the retired Army lieutenant's second attempt to run against Klein, having lost the last cycle by 10 percentage points. This year, however, West has emerged as a conservative favorite.