(WIBW) - A former U.S. Senator and Virginia Governor will be in Kansas to back the Senate campaign of Rep. Todd Tiahart, R-Kansas.

Tiahart announced Tuesday that George Allen, R-Virginia, has endorsed his campaign and will appear at a fundraiser.

"I know and admire Todd Tiahrt's outstanding record for freedom-loving, tax paying families and business owners," Allen said. "Kansans deserve a strong, conservative leader in the United States Senate and Todd Tiahrt has the proven courage to stand up and fight for the conservative principles that will help revitalize the economy and keep America safe."

Allen will speak at a fundraising reception to support the Tiahrt for Senate campaign at a home in Wichita February 16 from 6:30 - 7:30. The cost of the reception is $150. For more details, call the Tiahrt for Senate campaign office at (316) 265-2517.

As Governor of Virginia, Allen was responsible for sweeping reforms in economic development, public safety, and education accountability. While in the U.S. Senate, Allen served as Chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee and under his leadership the Republican majority was able to gain four seats.

Allen is currently President of George Allen Strategies, LLC and he serves as the Reagan Ranch Presidential Scholar for the Young America's Foundation.

Allen joins the growing list of conservatives who have endorsed Tiahrt including Dr. James Dobson, former US Attorney General John Ashcroft, Sen. Jim Inhofe, former Sen. Rick Santorum, Congressman Mike Rogers, former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, former Congressman Jim Ryun, and conservative talk radio icon Mark Levin. Tiahrt also has the support of groups such as; Concerned Women for America PAC, Kansans for Life PAC, Family Research Council PAC and Eagle Forum.

Tiahrt faces fellow Kansas Congressman Jerry Moran in the GOP primary for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Sam Brownback.