RALEIGH, N.C. — Since his retirement from the U.S. Senate, Jesse Helms has kept a low profile. Friday morning, the former Senator stepped into the spotlight once again, publicly endorsing a candidate near and dear to his heart.

Helms joined his granddaughter, Jennifer Knox, at the State Board of Elections as she officially announced her candidacy for District Court judge.

"I'm so proud of you," Helms said.

"He's my grandfather, first and foremost, but his notion of public service -- he's dedicated 30-plus years of his life to the American people and to the people of North Carolina and that has really made an impact on me. That's the biggest thing in making me want to go into elected office," Knox said.

"Thank you, sugar. I didn't expect that," Helms said. "I appreciate it, and yes, I'm choking up a little bit."

Knox is running for Michael Morgan's seat.