EXCLUSIVE — Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) will endorse state Rep. Derek Merrin for a competitive House race in Ohio, giving the local lawmaker’s campaign a boost among a crowded field of Republican candidates in the primary.

Johnson’s endorsement gives Merrin support from the House’s top Republican as the party seeks to flip Ohio’s 9th Congressional District, which is currently held by Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH). Johnson cited Merrin’s voting record on key issues such as the economy and public safety and his lengthy experience in local politics as reasons for giving Merrin his endorsement.