INDIANAPOLIS | Republican presidential hopeful John McCain has received the endorsement of Gov. Mitch Daniels.

"John McCain is a long-time friend. More importantly, he is a principled leader with a history of integrity, opposing excessive government spending and dealing honestly with the American people," Daniels said Thursday in a written statement.

Daniels, a Republican, told reporters last week that he has known the Arizona senator since McCain was a Navy captain. Before being elected governor in 2004, Daniels held several positions in Washington D.C., including federal budget director for President George W. Bush, and was a senior vice president at drug maker Eli Lilly and Co.

"Mitch is an impressive businessman and public servant who understands that common sense conservative principles and more effective government go hand-in-hand," McCain said in a statement. "Having the support of Mitch Daniels is important, and I look forward to honoring our common values as I move ahead in this process."

The endorsement announcement was made by McCain's presidential exploratory committee.