Just when it appeared the Republicans found their frontrunner in Arizona Sen. John McCain, a local religious leader has thrown a curveball.

Focus on the Family founder James Dobson is endorsing former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee for president. Dobson praised his stand on social issues including marriage, religion and abortion.

This is Dobson's second presidential endorsement. His first endorsement went to President Bush in 2004.

Until now, Dobson had never endorsed a GOP presidential hopeful during the primary campaign.

First, Mitt Romney surprised republicans, by dropping out of the presidential race.

Soon after, Dobson released a statement. He said, "I could not vote for McCain, even if he goes on to win the Republican nomination."

Huckabee faces a tough battle, since McCain already has more than half the delegates needed for the nomination.

Despite the odds, Dobson said, "[Huckabee] is our best remaining choice."

Of course, Dobson is not alone. Many social conservatives struggle to accept McCain's stance on issues like immigration and same-sex marriage.

But local GOP leaders point to the Democratic contenders as reason enough to rally behind the Republican on the ticket, whoever he may be.

Nathan Fisk, with the El Paso County Republicans, said, "The presidency controls who puts judges into office. The presidency can veto bills that are bad for congress. It's critical we put a Republican in place, not a Democrat.

Fisk said Dobson's endorsement bears some weight, but he urges Republicans to stay united.

"Ronald Reagan famously said, 'If you're 80% my friend, you are not my enemy.' And that's something Republicans should remember going into the election cycle," Fisk said.

UCCS political science professor Josh Dunn said McCain is almost guaranteed the nomination, but to win the presidency, he needs the social conservative voters.

Dunn said, "McCain does have some making up to do with the conservative base in Colorado. He's got to get out a big vote in Colorado Springs if he wants to win Colorado."