“Jeb has demonstrated his commitment to limited government, reduced spending and lower taxes and he will be a strong voice for the Tea Party’s call for these values,” according to Bachmann’s statement, sent by spokesman Sergio Gor.
Bachmann was facing what appeared to be flagging support within the GOP caucus in her bid for the leadership position, even though she had touted support from the tea party movement.
Hensarling announced support from presumptive majority leader Eric Cantor (Va.), along with Paul Ryan (Wisc.), Ron Paul (Texas), Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.), Paul Broun (Ga.) and Mike Pence (Ind.). Bachmann had announced support from Minnesota Reps. John Kline and Erik Paulsen, incoming Rep. Chip Cravaack, and Reps. Steve King (Iowa) and Louie Gohmert (Texas).
Hensarling sent out a gracious statement praising Bachmann's role as a grassroots leader in the tea party movement.
"Michele Bachmann is a committed movement conservative whose effective voice played an important role in America's decision to trust House Republicans once again," Hensarling said. "She is a dear friend, and I am humbled to earn her support. I look forward to her energetic leadership in a united House Republican Conference during the 112th Congress."
Also the founder of the Tea Party Caucus, Bachmann said she will “advance the Tea Party ideals” through the group – and said she hopes to add new freshman members.
“The new Congress will have great opportunities to lead our country into the direction our founders intended,” Bachmann said in her statement. “I spoke with Mr. Boehner and other members of leadership and I am convinced they will wholeheartedly work towards the issues the American people are calling for such as fiscal responsibility, ending the bailouts and repealing Obamacare.”