Missouri’s senior Republican, Sen. Kit Bond, has now jumped aboard the train for Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.

According to a Bond aide, McCain had called Bond and asked for his support.

Bond’s endorsement is noteworthy, in part, because of longstanding rumors that he and McCain are not, shall we say it, best of friends.

Bond previously had supported former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, and had committed his campaign to helping the mayor in Missouri’s Feb. 5 primary. But the mayor dropped out before then.

Bond’s endorsement is the second one today by a Missouri big name for McCain. Gov. Matt Blunt endorsed McCain this morning.

Here’s Bond’s statement, just sent out:

“I am pleased to support Senator McCain as our nominee for President. On the critical issue of national security and our safety here at home, Senator McCain is the only one who recognizes the threat of terrorism and who can lead our country in these dangerous times.   We stand shoulder to shoulder on supporting the efforts of our troops abroad and ensuring our intellgience capabilities against all threats.”