The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today announced its endorsement of challenger Mike Bouchard for U.S. Senate. Bouchard, who currently serves as Oakland County Sheriff, is seeking to unseat incumbent U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, who is seeking a second term.

"Mike Bouchard has what it takes to get the job done for Michigan," said Robert S. LaBrant, Senior Vice President of Political Affairs and General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. "His experience in law enforcement, as an elected official, and as a small business owner, makes him the best candidate for U.S. Senate."

A career law enforcement officer, Bouchard became Oakland County Sheriff in 1999. Prior to that time, Bouchard served as a State Senator from 1991- 1999. While serving in the State Senate, Bouchard was elected by his colleagues to serve as Assistant President Pro-Tempore (1991-1994), Assistant Senate Majority Leader (1994-1998), and Majority Floor Leader (1998-1999). Bouchard also served in the Michigan House of Representatives in 1990 before being elected to the State Senate in a special election.

"Mike Bouchard has a proven record of working for Michigan families and job providers," noted LaBrant. "As a state legislator, Bouchard achieved an 88 percent cumulative voting record with the Michigan Chamber. In contrast, Debbie Stabenow earned a cumulative score of just 36 percent with the Chamber.

"During her tenure as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives (1997- 2000) and now with the U.S. Senate, where she took office in 2001, Stabenow's performance has earned her an equally unimpressive cumulative score from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce of 49 percent," LaBrant added.

"The contrast between Bouchard and Stabenow makes it clear that Bouchard is the right choice for Michigan," LaBrant concluded.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is a statewide business organization which represents more than 6,900 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Michigan Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and legal process.

SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Robert LaBrant, Senior V.P. & General Counsel of Michigan
Chamber of Commerce, +1-517-371-7653

Web site: http://www.michamber.com/