The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today announced its endorsement of Rep. Elise Stefanik.

The U.S. Chamber, long the leading organization lobbying in Washington for business, cited their 100 percent rating of her voting record “in support of job creators and small businesses” as reason for their endorsement.

Stefanik, a first-term Republican from Willsboro, was joined in Glens Falls by top executives of construction company DA Collins and a host of business leaders, including top representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Business Council of New York State, and the Saratoga County Chamber.

"Growing up in a small business family, I have prioritized fighting for Upstate job creation in Congress," said Stefanik, who represents the North Country’s 21st Congressional District.

"That is why today, I’m honored to receive the endorsement from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce."

Stefanik said Congress needs representatives who “truly understand the challenges of small businesses and the need to enact policies that will grow our Upstate economy and create good paying jobs.”

She said she was “truly grateful” for the lobbyists’ endorsement, “and am humbled by the support of hard working families and small businesses across the North Country."

Eileen Braden, Vice President of Political Affairs and Federation Relations at the U.S. Chamber was unstinting in her praise of Stefanik.

“The Chamber of Commerce of the United States is proud to support Elise Stefanik in this race, and highlight her 100% voting record with job creators and small businesses,” Braden said. “Her record in Congress is unrivaled in fighting for policies that will keep upstate businesses upstate and create an environment for growth. Through her support of transportation reforms and removing regulatory burdens, she's ensured that businesses like D.A. Collins can hire and continue to create economic opportunities in North Country.”

“Elise Stefanik is just the type of smart, hardworking, business-friendly lawmaker we need more of in Washington, D.C.," said Business Council of New York State President and CEO Heather C. Briccetti. "I have had the personal pleasure of meeting with the Congresswoman and was impressed with both her knowledge of the issues and her dedication to the needs of her constituents. Since her election to Congress in 2014, Elise has provided a much-needed voice and a unique perspective that has benefited the North Country and the nation.”

Stefanik is being challenged by Mike Derrick, a Democrat and former U.S. Army colonel living in Peru, and Matt Funiciello, a baker and small business owner from Glens Falls who is running as the Green Party candidate. Funiciello also ran for the seat two years ago.