The New York Independence Party has endorsed Republican Congressional candidate Chris Jacobs in the state’s 27th Congressional District.

Jacobs is running to replace convicted Congressman Chris Collins, who resigned from the position in the fall. The GOP nominated the current state senator over the weekend.

New York Independence Party Chairman Frank MacKay cited the candidate’s record as a reformer who has “made government more effective and efficient,” in a release from the campaign.

“The Independence Party is proud to stand with Chris Jacobs, a proven reformer with a track record of protecting taxpayers and making government work,” MacKay said. “As [Erie] county clerk, Chris created efficiencies without increasing the size or cost of government while eliminating backlogs, ending patronage hires and creating the largest discount program for veterans in the state.”

Conservative county chairs have recommended the party not endorse a candidate in the special election. However, the Independence nomination could potentially be an important second line for the election, expected to be called for April 28, the same day as the Democratic presidential primary.

The Democrats are expected to designate 2018 candidate Nate McMurray. Jacobs has also recently picked up major endorsements from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and House Minority Whip Steve Scalise.