Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., endorsed state Sen. Lee Zeldin’s  bid to challenge Rep. Timothy H. Bishop, D-N.Y., picking sides in a competitive GOP primary in the 1st District.

“Lee has the integrity, work ethic and sense of duty that can help make a positive difference in Washington today,” McCain said in a Wednesday news release. “Lee’s service in the military, as a federal prosecutor and in state government demonstrate his deep commitment to advancing causes greater than his own self-interest.

Zeldin faces a well-financed Republican rival in in attorney George Demos. New York’s 1st District covers the eastern end of Long Island.

The race is rated Leans Democratic by Rothenberg Political Report/Roll Call.

Kyle Trygstad contributed to this report.