Speaker Johnson endorses former NASCAR driver for Democrat Jared Golden's seat

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., endorsed former NASCAR driver Austin Theriault in the Republican primary as he vies for the seat currently held by Maine Democrat Jared Golden.

"I'm endorsing Austin because he's a hardworking public servant with a strong track record of success," Johnson said, Fox News Digital reported Wednesday. "Austin will hold Joe Biden and Jared Golden — both failed leaders — accountable, and he's the best candidate to beat Jared Golden in November."

Theriault, who is currently serving as a GOP state representative in Maine, said that Johnson is "fighting for rural conservative values," and he is grateful for the speaker's support. 

"It's time to stand up and stop the out-of-touch elites from continuing to hurt our communities and proactively fight for a better and more prosperous future," Theriault also said. 

Maine's primary election for offices other than the presidency is scheduled for June 11, 2024, according to the Maine Secretary of State's Office. 

Golden has represented Maine's 2nd Congressional District since 2019. 

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