Business group drops long-standing endorsement of Sen. Nelson in Nebraska race

A small business association is backing Nebraska state Sen. Deb Fischer (R) in her upstart U.S. Senate campaign, despite having previously supported retiring Sen. Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) in previous cycles.

The National Federation of Independent Business said in a statement Wednesday that Fischer was the "only pro-business, pro-growth candidate," a swipe at Democratic challenger and former Sen. Bob Kerrey (D-Neb.).

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the NFIB,” said Fischer in a statement. “Small businesses are the engines that fuel our economy and create jobs, but for too long Washington has stood in their way. I am committed to repealing Obamacare, providing tax relief for small businesses and cutting the regulatory burden on America’s entrepreneurs.”

The Tennessee-based lobbying firm has traditionally supported Republican candidates, but Nelson was able to earn nods from them and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The group did not say Wednesday if they planned to spend significantly in the race. Fischer is the heavy favorite in the contest, with a May poll by Rasmussen showing her with a 18-point lead over Kerrey.

---