EARLY, Iowa (AP) — Republican Michele Bachmann's closest congressional ally has offered kind words for the presidential candidate but stopped short of an outright endorsement that could lift her back-of-the-pack campaign.

Bachmann and Iowa Rep. Steve King appeared together Friday at a small-town cafe in his congressional district.

King has remained neutral in the race despite attempts by several candidates to land his official support and that of the evangelical voters he tends to attract in his own elections.

King called Bachmann "my great friend" but said he still hasn't reached a personal decision in the GOP race.

Bachmann attracted small crowds in two stops Friday. She chalked it up to last-minute scheduling.

The Iowa caucuses are Tuesday.