By Ian Kullgren
KALAMAZOO, MI – U.S. Rep. Fred Upton received a unified endorsement from national and local chambers of commerce Monday morning.
In an announcement at the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce, leaders touted his record of supporting domestic oil production and transportation improvements.
"Without affordable energy we cannot get back on our feet," said Karen Harbert, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's energy division. "That's why it's so easy to stand up here early in the cycle and support (Upton)."
Rich Studley, president and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, called Upton's record "pro jobs, pro tax payer and pro business."
"Today we are in competition with other states for jobs," Studley said. "It's time to stop throwing money and green energy and green jobs."
Leaders emphasized his support for expansion of domestic oil production, including the proposed Keystone XL pipeline.
Upton has received a 100 percent positive rating from the chamber. Although candidates who are rated at 70 percent automatically get an endorsement, Harbert said the early move shows unanimous support from the business community.
"It's leaders like chairman Upton who look out for American national interest," Harbert said. "Coming out early provides him support and shows the people of Michigan there's a unified support of the business community."
In thanking the leaders for the endorsement, Upton urged that expansion of U.S. oil production, including the Keystone XL pipeline, will only happen if former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is elected in November.
"It's not coming without a change in the White House," he said.