Donald Trump endorses Sarah Palin for Alaska representative

Former President Donald Trump on Sunday endorsed former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin in her bid to succeed the late Rep. Don Young in the U.S. House.

"Sarah shocked many when she endorsed me very early in 2016, and we won big. Now, it's my turn!" Trump wrote in a statement published by his spokesperson Liz Harrington.

He called Palin a "wonderful patriot" and a "true

America First fighter."

Trump said that she "has been a champion for Alaska values, Alaska energy, Alaska jobs, and the great people of Alaska."

Palin announced her campaign for the House on Friday. She served as governor of Alaska from 2006 to 2009 and ran as candidate for vice president in Arizona Sen. John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign.

"She was one of the most popular Governors because she stood up to corruption in both State Government and the Fake News Media," Trump said.

"Sarah lifted the McCain presidential campaign out of the dumps despite the fact that she had to endure some very evil, stupid, and jealous people within the campaign itself," he noted. "They were out to destroy her, but she didn't let that happen."

Palin was target recently after she lost a libel lawsuit against The New York Times.

Trump said that she is "tough and smart and will never back down."

He concluded: "I am proud to give her my Complete and Total Endorsement, and encourage all Republicans to unite behind this wonderful person and her campaign to put America First!"

Palin said last month that she would be "humbled and honored" to replace Young. The 88-year-old congressman died in March during a flight home after serving in the House since 1973.