The Connecticut Business and Industry Association has endorsed Republican candidate Christopher Coutu for election to the 19th state Senate District.

"Most voters say jobs and the economy are their top issues," said John R. Rathgeber, CBIA president and CEO. "Connecticut clearly needs lawmakers who can restore business confidence in our state so that employers invest, grow and create jobs here. We believe Chris Coutu is committed to making Connecticut a better state in which to do business, which means more and better jobs for our residents."

CBIA said in the press release that Connecticut is experiencing a "slow recovery" from the recession, which has cost the state 100,000 jobs.

Coutu, who has also been endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Businesses, welcomed CBIA's support.

"Too many legislators in Hartford forget the simple principle that government doesn't create jobs; people create jobs – hard working men and women willing to take a risk, start a small business, and build something of value," Coutu said. "Sadly, high taxes, big government and over-regulation is making it more difficult to take that risk in Connecticut than in other American states."

Coutu, the current 47th District state representative, faces Democratic Sprague First Selectman Cathy Osten in the 19th District race, which includes the towns of Columbia, Franklin, Hebron, Lebanon, Ledyard, Lisbon, Marlborough, northeastern Montville, Norwich and Sprague.