U.S. Chamber endorses Blunt for Senate

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Republican U.S. Rep. Roy Blunt in his bid for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Kit Bond.

The Chamber, the largest business association in the country, gave Blunt a "strong endorsement" based on his political track record with business issues, according to a news release from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

"With Missouri -- and the entire nation -- struggling to rebound from tough economic times, we need a strong Senator who understands that a thriving business community is the starting point to the state's overall success," Missouri Chamber President and CEO Daniel P. Mehan said in the news release.

The release cited Blunt's work in cutting taxes, fighting lawsuit abuse and "helping reduce stifling federal red tape on small business" as the reasons the U.S. Chamber gave Blunt one of its highest ratings.

Blunt toured sites in St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield on Tuesday promoting the endorsement.

Blunt faces Democratic Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan, Libertarian Jonathan Dine and Constitution Party candidate Jerry Beck in the November general election.