Chamber of Commerce endorses Lugar

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce endorsed Sen. Dick Lugar (R-Ind.) Tuesday, a major victory for the embattled senator.

Lugar is facing off in a May primary against Indiana state Treasurer Richard Mourdock (R), who has run hard to his right and has the backing of some heavy-hitting outside groups, including the National Rifle Association and the fiscally conservative Club for Growth. A recent poll showed Lugar with a narrow lead in the race.

"We're endorsing Senator Lugar because of his proven record and ability to get things done in support of Indiana job creation and economic growth," said Chamber Vice President Rob Engstrom in a statement.

"With small businesses in Indiana and across the nation facing prolonged uncertainty over rising energy costs, pending regulations and the threat of new taxes, we need leaders in the United States Senate who will fight through the gridlock," he continued. "Senator Lugar is a demonstrated leader who has shown his commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of Indiana's job creators."

While the endorsement from the center-right, pro-business Chamber isn't a surprise, if the group spends heavily for Lugar it could make a difference in his May 8 primary.

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