Shortly before his plane touches down here this afternoon, U.S. Sen. John McCain’s presidential campaign announced thoday that his state campaign chairman will be fellow Sen. Christopher “Kit” Bond, R-Mo.

As most know, McCain had not been Bond’s initial choice for president. Bond had backed former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani until he dropped out before Missouri’s Feb. 5 primary. Bond then shifted allegiences to McCain, by then the clear presumptive GOP nominee.

From today’s release:

“John McCain is a proven leader with the experience needed to keep our country safe, the ability to reach across the aisle to get things done and the vision to get our economy back on track,” said Bond in a statement.

“Missourians know how much this election means for the future of our state and our nation, and I’m proud to work on John McCain’s behalf to ensure his victory in Missouri.”

John McCain added, “Kit is a dedicated public servant, who remains committed to improving the lives of the people in Missouri. I am grateful for his service to this country and for his willingness to help my campaign. I look forward to working with him and traveling to Missouri in the months to come.”

The release also notes that “Bond serves as the ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the nation’s housing and transportation needs. Bond is also the Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, where is working to ensure our terror-fighters have the tools they need to keep America safe from attack, like the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act which he shepherded through the House and Senate….”

It also notes that his son, Sam Bond, is a Marine sharpshooter who has served two tenures in Iraq.