Former House Majority Leader Eric Cantor endorsed Jeb Bush for president Thursday evening.

“Governor Bush is a true conservative leader with a long-term vision for this country and the practical know-how to implement it,” Cantor said in a statement.

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This gives the Bush camp a backer with strong ties to the business community who may be able to marshall significant cash and corporate support for the former Florida governor.

Cantor will be a Virginia state co-chair of the campaign, according to Politico, which first reported the story. Cantor is appearing with Bush at a Thursday evening fundraiser in Richmond and then will campaign with him in Norfolk on Friday.

Cantor, who like Bush is a card-carrying member of the Republican establishment, was unexpectedly trounced in the 2014 GOP primary by conservative David Brat, who went on to win Cantor’s seat in the general election.

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