The National Federation of Independent Business has endorsed Republican Heather Somers in her bid for the 18th District state Senate seat.

In its endorsement NBIB said Somers "will be committed to the needs of thousands of Main Street small businesses and their employees in Connecticut."

According to a news release, the NFIB is the nation's leading small business association. Founded in 1943 as a nonprofit, it gives small and independent business owners a voice in shaping the public policy issues that affect their business.

As a former small business owner herself, Somers said she welcomes the group's support.

"Getting Connecticut's fiscal house in order, upending the priorities of insiders in Hartford to make our state friendly to business and stopping the out-of-control tax increases pushed by Gov. Malloy and his allies will lift all boats, most importantly for our small businesses and the jobs they create and support," Somers said.

The 18th District includes Stonington, Groton, North Stonington, Griswold, Voluntown, Sterling and Preston.

Somers also has been endorsed by CT REALTORS, the Connecticut Business & Industry Association and more than two dozen current and former local leaders.