Here's U.S. Rep. (and former dissident GOP Presidential candidate) Ron Paul's statement:

“I am proud to endorse Clint Didier for United States Senate. Clint Didier will do the work to fight for lower taxes and spending and for more freedom in Washington. We need people like Clint voting with me in Congress.

“Clint Didier is a dynamic leader who understands our Constitution and will fight against out-of-control government to restore our Liberty. Clint has the courage to stand up against the bailouts and government takeovers being forced down our throats by Washington insiders.

“As a farmer and family man, Clint understands the challenges that we face. And, he understands that solutions lie in our Constitution and the great American traditions of freedom.

“The American people need more than just another vote. We need a man of principle who will always stand up for what is right. We need a citizen politician who will represent US. Clint Didier is just that kind of individual.”

The Didier campaign followed up with a statement from Didier and campaign spokeswoman Kathryn Serkes.

Didier said: “I thank him for recognizing that someone like me – NOT the establishment party’s insider – will have the courage and grit to stand up to government bail outs, sweetheart deals and the temptation of pork-barrel politics.”

“Dr. Paul knows so well that our Founders gave us a game plan –the Constitution.  And if we just go back to following it, we can get our country back on track.”

In the release, Serkes added:  “This is another indication that Washington State is a key battleground race.  “There is absolutely no doubt that the grassroots, not the political establishment, will call the shots in elections this year.”

Rossi campaign spokeswoman Jennifer Morris tells PubliCola, “This race is going to be decided by Washingtonians. Not out of state endorsements.”

BusinessWire had the initial Paul+Didier scoop.