It's no big surprise, but Nolan Karras, who failed in his bid to become the Republican gubernatorial nominee, has thrown his support behind Republican Jon Huntsman Jr.

It's no surprise because Karras and Huntsman got along well during the primary election campaign and both are dyed-in-the-wool Republicans.

Karras and Huntsman formally joined forces Friday on the steps of the Ogden city building.

"One of the keys to our victory (in November) is uniting the Republican Party, and this goes a long way toward that," said Jason Chaffetz, Huntsman's campaign manager. "We see Weber and Davis counties as important battlegrounds with (Democratic nominee Scott) Matheson, and Nolan's strength there is important."

Karras beat Huntsman in Weber County, where he has a strong organization. The two have been talking about how much Karras will be involved in the Huntsman campaign.

"He has offered to campaign and help in any possible way," Chaffetz said. "I would expect Jon is going to lean on him for policy, as well as shaking hands."