Chamber Issues Endorsements

A message from the Ohio Chamber:

Ohio Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee Endorses
Kasich, Husted and DeWine

COLUMBUS - Today, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (OCCPaC) announced its endorsements in races for three statewide offices. OCCPaC endorsed John Kasich for Governor, Jon Husted for Secretary of State, and Mike DeWine for Attorney General.

“These endorsements represent the leadership we need to retain and attract businesses to Ohio,” said Jeffrey S. Gorman, Chairman of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. “They are not about where we have been; but rather where we must go if we are to, once again, be a state where businesses grow, families prosper, and a stronger economic environment exists for all.”

“OCCPaC took the unusual step of endorsing in selected statewide races this year because our state faces tremendous challenges that are demanding more from each of us, including the Ohio Chamber, “ said Andrew E. Doehrel, President and CEO of the Ohio Chamber. “Clearly, this action is not without risk, but we felt it was critically important for Ohio’s largest, oldest and most diverse business organization to boldly step forward when our leadership matters most.”

Mr. Doehrel went on to say, “the members of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce respect and appreciate the service of Gov. Ted Strickland during a very difficult time for our state. But, for Ohio to thrive, we need new vision, new ideas, and new energy. That is why we have endorsed John Kasich for Governor. We believe John will use his valuable experience and courage to inspire all Ohioans to make the hard choices that lie ahead”.

“We are also pleased to endorse Jon Husted for Secretary of State. Jon has a deep understanding of the business community and will work tirelessly to ensure that the Secretary of State’s office does everything it can to help improve our state’s business climate. We are also pleased to endorse Mike DeWine for Attorney General. The Attorney General’s office can have a paralyzing effect on economic growth if its powers are not exercised with discretion, balance and fairness. We believe Mike is the best candidate to hold this office,” Mr. Doehrel concluded.

The OCCPaC did not endorse in the offices of Auditor or Treasurer. “Although these races have drawn excellent candidates, we believe it is best to focus our attention on the offices that have the greatest impact on Ohio’s business climate and economy,” Mr. Doehrel said.

Founded in 1893, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce is Ohio’s largest and most diverse statewide business advocacy group. The Chamber works to promote and protect the interests of its 4,000 business members, large and small, while building a more favorable business climate and economy,” Mr. Doehrel said.