Sen. Marv Hagedorn, R-Meridian, has announced the endorsement of former state Commerce Director Jeff Sayer, who is joining his lieutenant governor campaign as its treasurer. Sayer said he’s signing on with Hagedorn – who’s facing four other Republicans vying for the post thus far – because he believes economic development is a key role for a lieutenant governor, and Hagedorn’s “extensive business background, public service and military experience make him uniquely qualified.”

The other candidates in the race are Rep. Kelley Packer, R-McCammon; former Rep. Janice McGeachin, R-Idaho Falls; former Idaho Republican Party Chairman Steve Yates of Idaho Falls; and former Constitution Party gubernatorial candidate Steve Pankey of Twin Falls.

Hagedorn noted that after 20 years on active duty in the Navy, his private sector career included managing business operations for two international companies, growing one from $7 million to $100 million per year and the other from startup to $3 million per year; and negotiating and closing international business contracts valued at more than $200 million. He holds three U.S. patents. He currently heads the Wyakin Foundation, which he co-founded, which supports wounded veterans transitioning back to civilian life.