The Mississippi Association of Realtors announced Thursday its endorsement of state auditor Phil Bryant for lieutenant governor.

The group cited his 15 years experience "supporting economic growth and affordable housing."

The association represents more than 6,500 real estate professionals, but the group said it believes the endorsement could influence more than 100,000 Mississippi voters.

Bryant said he became emotional when he found out he got the endorsement.

"Then a feeling of weighty responsibility, knowing so many people put their trust in me. My job now is not to let them down," said Bryant. "I will be a tireless worker. I will be a public servant."

Bryant will take on fellow Republican Sen. Charlie Ross in the GOP Primary. The winner will then face Democrat Rep. Jamie Franks in the General Election.