The U.S. Chamber of Commerce announced its endorsement of Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate Race on Sunday, October 18, citing his support for free enterprise, lower taxes, the energy industry, and legal reforms aimed at reducing burdens on businesses.

“The choice is clear in Texas,” Neil Bradley, the Chamber’s executive vice president and chief policy officer, said in the announcement. He praised Paxton for pushing back against federal overreach and supporting policies intended to help American businesses grow.

Bradley also highlighted Paxton’s position on lawsuit reform, saying the organization looks forward to working with him on efforts to protect employers from excessive litigation and regulatory red tape. The Chamber says its endorsements focus on candidates who support economic growth, innovation and opportunities for American businesses and workers.

The endorsement marks a shift for the national business group, which backed incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn earlier this year before Paxton defeated him in the Republican primary runoff. Paxton now faces Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in the November general election.

The race has attracted national attention as Republicans work to retain their Senate majority. The Chamber’s backing gives Paxton support from a prominent business organization as he seeks to broaden his appeal beyond the Republican primary electorate.