With the future direction of the economy and job growth at stake, a growing number of chambers of commerce are recognizing that they can’t afford to be silent this election year.

Following last week's launch of the U.S. Chamber's massive grassroots and television ad blitz designed to hold elected officials accountable for their votes on critical economic issues, several chambers enthusiastically offered support for the U.S. Chamber's efforts, which currently are taking place in 8 states with key Senate races and 12 congressional districts.

The Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce and the North Dakota Chamber of Commerce even added their names to the U.S. Chamber’s television ads running in their states, demonstrating the united front and collective interests of the national and state business communities on issues that directly impact growth and hiring.

The growing participation in and support for the U.S. Chamber's voter education efforts underscore the weight of the upcoming elections. Here's what a few chamber CEOs and one company CEO are saying about the Chamber's program:

"'The chamber has targeted [Sen. Jon] Tester because of his poor record of supporting chamber positions on issues important to business. [Rep. Denny] Rehberg has a 96 percent voting record (for chamber positions); Tester was 36 percent in 2010,’ Sterhan said. "'There is a stark difference on issues that have been identified as important to the business community. This is a watershed campaign.'” - Don Sterhan, President and CEO, Mountain Equity Group, Billings, MT as quoted in the Missoulian

“Federal laws, policies and proposals are by far the biggest cause of uncertainty for Wisconsin businesses. Wisconsin businesses need fewer federal mandates, regulatory red tape and taxes. WMC and the U.S. Chamber ads praise [Rep. Sean] Duffy and criticize [Rep. Tammy] Baldwin. Baldwin is expected to run for U.S. Senate later this year. The ads run through February 23 and are part of a multi-state blitz organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce." - Kurt R. Bauer, President and CEO, Wisconsin Manufactures & Commerce as quoted in the WMC press release

“'The ad supporting [Rep. Fred] Upton is aimed to educate and inform independent voters about who's fighting for businesses and who isn't… Upton is the chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and has the experience to make a real difference in Washington, D.C.'”
- Rich Studley, CEO and President of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce as quoted in the Kalamazoo Gazette

“Pennsylvania, like most states, is in desperate need of more jobs for its citizens and [Rep.] Mike Fitzpatrick is doing his part to get the state back on track. When we send our lawmakers to Washington, they must be held accountable for their votes.  The U.S. Chamber’s voter education efforts play an important role in educating the people of Pennsylvania about where our leaders stand on business issues.”
- Gene Barr, President and CEO, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry

“North Dakotans appreciate the benefits that successful businesses of all sizes bring to North Dakota families. In a hyper energized environment it is important to remember that the ideals of the business community are essential.  It is because of this central tenet that North Dakota leads the way in short and long term job growth.  We must continue to honor that success and support federal policies that ensure our economic security.”
- Andy Peterson, President of the Great North Dakota Chamber of Commerce

"Rhetoric is easy, votes are tough and the U.S. Chamber’s voter campaign highlights where candidates stand on key economic policies. We appreciate the leadership and engagement of this U.S. Chamber in our democratic process."
- John Schmitt, president & CEO, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce