Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. on Wednesday formally endorsed his former chief of staff and fellow Republican, Jason Chaffetz, for the 3rd Congressional District.

"As a member of Congress, Jason's dogged tenacity will serve the people of Utah well," Huntsman said. "Jason has worked determinedly in his public service. His dedication and ability to dive into hard issues will be a formidable addition to Utah's congressional delegation."

The governor had declined to back a candidate before the primary, even though Chaffetz had served as both his campaign manager in his successful 2004 election and as his chief of staff during his first year in office.

But after Chaffetz defeated Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah, with 60 percent of the vote last month, Huntsman said he contacted Chaffetz and promised to do whatever he could to help him win. "I support him fully," the governor said then.