Former Alaska governor and GOP vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has endorsed 1st Congressional District candidate Vaughn Ward.

Ward learned of Palin's support on Sunday, and said the former governor's big name is a big-time boost to his campaign, which started as a grassroots effort but has quickly gained momentum.

"They like the way we built this campaign from the grassroots up," Ward said Tuesday. "That's where the campaign began, and Sarah Palin has a close relationship with Idaho, especially the first district."

Palin lived in Sandpoint, and attended North Idaho College. She graduated from the University of Idaho and gives her endorsement as the May 25 primary election nears.

"I'm happy to support Vaughn Ward because I know that he believes in the same common sense, conservative ideals that we cherish," Palin said in her announcement.

Last August, Palin's father Chuck Heath and father-in-law Jim Palin helped raise funds for Ward's campaign in North Idaho.

"I'm really pleased that Sarah has come out and endorsed Vaughn, he's a good man," Jim Palin told The Press on Tuesday. "He not only has the best interest of Idaho, but the best interest of the nation in mind."

Ward, a decorated veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, is vying against state Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Eagle, for a chance to challenge Democratic Congressman Walt Minnick.

Ward met the Palins when he was Nevada state chairman for the McCain-Palin campaign.

"That's when we became very impressed with him," Jim Palin said.

Ward told the Palins that even if they won the election, he would return to Idaho to run for the seat rather than follow the Palins to Washington.

"That was a cool statement that we have not forgotten," Jim Palin said.

Michael Chadwick of Post Falls, Allan Salzberg of Boise and Harley Brown of Idaho City also have filed for the seat, according to Associated Press reports.

But Sarah Palin said in her endorsement that Ward should be the candidate of choice.

"Vaughn knows that real job growth comes from the private sector, not government," she said.

Ward has raised around $450,000 since his campaign began one year ago. His next scheduled stop in Coeur d'Alene is April 10, he said.

"What I'm building this campaign on is Idahoans," Ward said. "Sarah Palin is on board because Idahoans are on board."