Rep. Paul Broun is back in Augusta Republicans’ good graces.

Broun’s opponent in the Republican primary, Barry Fleming, and state Rep. Ben Harbin are among a dozen prominent Augustans who are hosting a fundraiser for Broun on Wednesday.

Fleming declined to endorse Broun immediately after the primary. But Team Broun quoted Fleming today as saying: "We must work this fall to send every Republican back to Congress to fight the Democrat's assault on our freedoms. Congressman Broun will be a fighter for us against the Barack Obama/Nancy Pelosi policies that are harmful to America."

The announcement is a blow to Democratic opponent Bobby Saxon, who had hoped to win over Fleming supporters.

Blake.aued@onlineathens.com