DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad says Donald Trump should consider U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst as his vice presidential running mate for the upcoming general election. Branstad told reporters Monday the senator from Iowa would be a “great asset” to Trump, the Republican’s presumptive nominee for president. The governor says Ernst’s military record and political background make her an ideal choice for the job.

Branstad made the comments after Sen. John McCain of Arizona voiced support recently for Ernst as a possible VP pick. Branstad says he has not discussed the subject with Ernst, who is serving her first term in the Senate. He says he intends to try to meet directly with Trump before the party’s national convention in July to formally make the case for Ernst.