Haley, the first Indian-American elected to the South Carolina legislature, trails Attorney General Henry McMaster, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer and Rep. Gresham Barrett in recent polls.

“It is a tremendous honor to receive Governor Palin’s endorsement,” Haley said in a statement. “Sarah Palin has energized the conservative movement like few others in our generation.”

“She has helped millions of Americans find the power of their voice,” Haley added. “I am extremely proud that she has offered her support to my candidacy.”

Palin will appear with Haley late Friday afternoon at a rally in Columbia.

Haley was a close ally of South Carolina GOP Gov. Mark Sanford prior to his admission of an affair with an Argentine mistress.

Sanford remains politically radioactive in the state, but his ex-wife Jenny has taken up the slack in supporting Haley’s candidacy.

Haley and Jenny Sanford will be on the campaign trail together on Friday prior to Palin’s visit to the state.