Release Date: Nov 01, 2002Contact: 888-249-NEWS
U.S. Chamber Calls Out the Ground Troops
Washington, D.C. - The United States Chamber of Commerce will spend the last days before the elections turning out the business vote in key U.S. House and Senate races across the country on behalf of pro-business candidates.
"Electing a pro-growth Congress is the first priority of the business community and we will take our message to the individual voters in every state," said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas Donohue. "Candidates who support issues that matter to American business owners, workers and their families will have our support leading up to November 5."
Since the election cycle began, the Chamber has endorsed 294 candidates for office, held 87 fundraisers, made nearly 500,000 phone calls and sent more than 1.7 million pieces of mail. Through its member affiliates, the country's leading business organization has raised money; educated likely voters through radio, television, print and email; set up phone banks; organized get-out-the-vote efforts; and leveraged broader support for a Congress dedicated to growth and prosperity.
"Recent elections and our experience have taught us that every vote counts. We are taking nothing for granted as we work this political season on a retail level," said Donohue. "The Chamber is committed to electing a Congress that will lower taxes, rein in trial lawyers and improve opportunities for U.S. businesses around the world."
In the final days remaining until the Election, the Chamber is redoubling its effort in two-dozen close House races and 10 Senate races - using its hard and soft money assets; putting staff on the ground; and informing voters of the issues that separate candidates.
This year marks the Chamber's most aggressive get-out-the-vote effort ever. The business community is using a web-based voter education program designed to maximize employee participation. The program provides companies with tailored, organization-specific information on voter registration, policy issues affecting their industry, as well as information on the specific candidates and their positions on important issues.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.
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