Trump scores key endorsement from high-profile GOP senator

Montana Republican Sen. Steve Daines endorsed former President Donald Trump's bid to return to the White House in 2024 on Monday, making him one of the highest-ranking Republicans to throw their support behind him this cycle.

"The best four years I’ve had in the U.S. Senate was when President Trump was serving in the Oval Office," Daines said on the "Triggered" podcast hosted by Donald J. Trump Jr. "For these reasons and many others I’m proud to endorse Donald J. Trump for president of the United States."

Daines is chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the organization that oversees party efforts to reclaim control of the upper chamber. His support for Trump could influence Senate Republicans on the matters of the former president's candidacy and support for certain candidates in the Senate contests.

The Montana Republican follows 10 other senators in backing the former president, among them Marsha Blackburn, Tenn.; Mike Braun, Ind.; Ted Budd, N.C.; Lindsey Graham, S.C.; Bill Hagerty, Tenn.; Cindy Hyde-Smith, Miss.; Markwayne Mullin, Okla.; Eric Schmitt, Mo.; Tommy Tuberville, Ala.; and J.D. Vance, Ohio; according to Business Insider.

At least one sitting GOP senator, Tim Scott of South Carolina, has announced the formation of a committee to explore his own bid for the Republican nomination.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.