CENTRAL NEW YORK -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is backing Republican Dale Sweetland in his bid for the 25th Congressional District.

The chamber endorsed Sweetland and praised his strong support for the state's businesses. The chamber says Sweetland will be an effective legislator and supporter of businesses of every size.

Sweetland is running against Democrat Dan Maffei and Green Populist candidate Howie Hawkins to replace retiring congressman James Walsh.