Republicans are aiming to claim a Senate seat from Missouri this year, as GOP voters select their candidate to take on Democrat Sen. Claire McCaskill, Tuesday.

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin endorsed Sarah Steelman, one of the three Republican contenders, giving her a big boost in the polls.

At least one political analyst credits Palin's television, radio, and print endorsements for Steelman's recent surge in the polls.

"It is an honor that she is willing to come in and help me," Steelman told local reporters. "You know she just confirms my conservative credentials."

Businessman John Brunner and Rep. Todd Akin are the other two Senate candidates in state's Republican Senate Primary.