Indiana Gov. Mike Pence endorsed Ted Cruz on Friday ahead of the Hoosier State’s critical primary. But he also commended Donald Trump for tapping into “the frustration of millions of working Americans.”
“I’m not against anybody, but I will be voting for Ted Cruz,” Pence said in a radio interview on WIBC in Indianapolis.
The measured show of support comes four days before the state’s primary contest that is essential for Cruz to win in order to prevent Donald Trump from securing the 1,237 delegates needed to clinch the GOP presidential nomination.
“I see Ted Cruz as a principled conservative who has dedicated his career to advocating the Reagan agenda,” Pence said. “And I’m pleased to support him.”
However, before announcing the endorsement, Pence went out of his way to praise Cruz’s chief rival.
“I particularly want to commend Donald Trump, who I think has given voice to the frustration of millions of working Americans with the lack of progress in Washington, D.C.,” the governor said. Pence added that he was not trying to tell Indiana voters who to support and that he will enthusiastically back whichever candidate win the nomination.
Cruz teased the endorsement while campaigning in Indiana earlier in the day.
“I have tremendous respect for Gov. Mike Pence. He has been an incredible leader for the state of Indiana,” the Texas senator told reporters.
This article originally appeared on NBCNews.com.
Hallie Jackson
Hallie Jackson is senior Washington correspondent for NBC News.