President Donald Trump announced Friday that he is backing Kevin Hern in the race to succeed Markwayne Mullin as Oklahoma’s next U.S. senator.

Trump shared the endorsement in a post on Truth Social, praising the Oklahoma congressman as a strong supporter of his political movement.

“Kevin is strongly supported by the fiercest MAGA Warriors in Oklahoma, and the most Highly Respected Leaders in the United States Senate!” Trump wrote. “As the Chair of the House Republican Policy Committee, Kevin is doing a tremendous job advancing our AMERICA FIRST Agenda.”

“Kevin Hern will be an outstanding Senator, and has my Complete and Total Endorsement – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” he added.

Hern formally launched his campaign earlier this week, becoming the first candidate to enter the race for the seat. In a campaign video announcing his bid, he said he wanted to ensure Trump has “a loyal ally” in the Senate.

Hern later thanked the president for his support in a post on X.

“President Trump has delivered strong leadership for our country, and I’m proud to stand with him to secure our borders, strengthen our economy, support our men and women in uniform, and restore the American Dream for hardworking families,” Hern wrote.

The vacancy in the United States Senate was created after Trump selected Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, to serve as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security following the dismissal of Kristi Noem.

Under Oklahoma law, Kevin Stitt will appoint a temporary replacement to serve in the Senate until voters elect a permanent successor. The governor’s appointee is barred from running in the election for the seat.

Another potential candidate, Stephanie Bice, said Friday she would not enter the race and instead plans to seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Shortly after her announcement, Trump also endorsed Bice for reelection, praising the congresswoman for her work representing Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District.

According to the Oklahoma State Election Board, candidate filing for federal offices in the state will take place April 1–3. The primary election for the Senate seat is scheduled for June 16.