Just as his campaign was picking up steam in Iowa, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee (R) also picked up the support of a Congressman in another presidential primary state, South Carolina. [IMGCAP(1)]

Rep. Bob Inglis (R-S.C.) announced over the Thanksgiving recess that he is endorsing Huckabee. He said the Baptist preacher-turned-governor’s broad political appeal was a factor in his decision.

“Mike Huckabee is a conservative focused on the future and rooted in principle,” Inglis said in a statement. “He’s also the candidate best able to unite Republicans, appeal to independents and win over some Democrats.”

Inglis joins Reps. John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Don Young (R-Alaska), Huckabee’s other Congressional supporters.

Inglis is the fourth Republican from the Palmetto State to announce his support for a 2008 presidential candidate. Sens. Lindsey Graham and Jim DeMint have split their support between Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, respectively. Rep. Gresham Barrett is supporting former Sen. Fred Thompson (Tenn.).

Neither of the state’s two Congressional Democrats — Reps. John Spratt and James Clyburn — has endorsed as of yet.

— Lauren W. Whittington