Republican Michael Bousselot is racking up key endorsements in the special election race to fill the vacancy left by the passing of Representative John Landon, who died of cancer. 

Two of the most coveted endorsements in the campaign, the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) and Iowa Association of Business and Industry (IABI), have gone to Bousselot. 

“Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in both the private and public sectors. He supports lower taxes, less regulation and an environment where Iowa businesses and their employees can thrive. This makes him an ideal candidate for the Iowa Legislature and why IIPAC fully supports his candidacy,” said ABI Vice President of Public Policy JD Davis.

Bousselot was chosen as the GOP nominee at a special nominating convention on August 14th. He recently served as director of the Iowa Department of Management and previously worked as chief of staff to Governor Terry Branstad. 

“The NFIB Iowa PAC is proud to endorse Michael Bousselot, who understands what small business owners are going through during this turbulent time,” said Matt Everson, NFIB State Director in Iowa. “We need legislators in the Iowa House who understand that small business is the key to growing any economy. “That means continuing to cut Iowa’s income tax rates, getting control of and lowering Iowa’s high property taxes and helping Iowa’s workforce shortfall with policies that will get people back to work and ready for the jobs Iowa needs. Mike Bousselot is someone who understands the challenges small business faces and will fight to make sure they are heard.”

Both endorsements reflect the confidence small business and Economy /commerce-focused groups have in Bousselot’s campaign and policy priorities. 

Democrats selected Andrea Phillips. Phillips has run for the seat twice already and lost both times. Her decision to run a third time was met with disapproval after announcing her campaign before Landon’s Funeral. 

Phillips has had less luck on the endorsement front. So far, she can only point to an endorsement from Emily’s List, the far left abortion advocacy group. However, in her previous losing campaigns, she received the support of Planned Parenthood, AFL-CIO, Sierra Club.

The election is scheduled for September 14th.