In a significant political development, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Rep. Chris Pappas, D-N.H., in his re-election campaign. This endorsement was announced on October 7, 2024, and highlights Pappas' bipartisan efforts, particularly his work on the federal infrastructure bill. Stephen P. McAllister from the Chamber praised Pappas for his commitment to supporting small businesses, a sentiment echoed by local entrepreneur Elizabeth Hitchcock, who noted Pappas' understanding of the challenges faced by small business owners [ba74a6bf].
Pappas, who co-owns the Puritan Backroom restaurant, a staple in the community for 107 years, faces a challenge from Republican Russell Prescott. Prescott has garnered support from the National Federation of Independent Businesses Fed PAC, emphasizing his own background as the owner of R.E. Prescott Company, founded in 1954 [ba74a6bf].
The endorsement from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is expected to bolster Pappas' campaign as he seeks to appeal to both moderate Democrats and independent voters in New Hampshire, a state known for its competitive political landscape [ba74a6bf]. This race is shaping up to be a critical contest in the broader context of the upcoming elections, where economic policies and support for local businesses will play a pivotal role in voter decisions.