Third-ranking Senate Republican formally backs Trump's presidential campaign

Republican Senator John Barrasso from Wyoming declared on Tuesday that he is endorsing former President Donald Trump in his new campaign for the presidency. Barrasso, the highest-ranking GOP senator to do so, emphasized the need for a strong Republican conservative House and Senate, alongside Trump back in the White House. He made this announcement during an appearance on Fox News' "Hannity."

Former President Donald Trump, left, andRepublican Presidential Candidate Nikki Haley.

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Trump turns ire on Haley as she builds momentum

Barrasso, the third highest-ranking member of the Republican Senate leadership, has joined all members of the House GOP leadership in endorsing Trump's re-election campaign as the former president competes for the Republican presidential nomination. This public support comes less than a week before the Iowa caucuses.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has chosen to remain neutral in the race, while Senate GOP Whip John Thune had initially backed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott before he dropped his bid.

Barrasso, who is facing reelection in the upcoming fall, is considered a potential replacement for McConnell, along with Thune and Texas Sen. John Cornyn.

Despite the former president's continued leadership in the Republican presidential primary, recent polls indicate a surge for Nikki Haley, especially in New Hampshire, where a recent CNN survey revealed Trump's lead narrowing to single digits.

Trumps team has shifted to targeting his onetime UN ambassador as it seeks to slow her recent momentum before the first votes are cast next week.