WASHINGTON – Virginia Republican Congressman Eric Cantor, who has launched a bid for House Minority Whip, has picked up the early support of U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield), a well-placed GOP source tells PolitickerCA.com.

“Congressman McCarthy is actively supporting Congressman Eric Cantor for Whip,” said the source.

Cantor is looking to replace the sitting Minority Whip, U.S. Rep. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.). Blunt has not announced plans on whether he will run for Minority Whip again. Spokespersons for Cantor and Blunt did not respond to a request for comment.

McCarthy and Cantor are seen as close. The two helped to lead the House GOP Young Guns, which provided institutional support to party challengers this election cycle.