Sep 27, 2020 - Politics & Policy

U.S. Chamber to launch widespread lobbying effort for Barrett fight

The Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America building facade in Washington

Photo: Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has begun mobilizing its resources and lobbying lawmakers and businesses across Washington to put Judge Amy Coney Barrett on the Supreme Court, with plans to launch a multi-step effort this week, sources familiar with the plans tell Axios.

The big picture: The effort comes as the traditionally conservative-leaning Chamber has faced weeks of intense backlash for its decision to endorse 23 vulnerable House Democratic freshmen in November. The criticism reached a fever pitch last week, culminating in a call from President Trump himself.

What we're hearing: Similar to their previous pushes to help confirm Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, the Chamber plans to roll out a detailed campaign in support of Barrett, including:

  • Issuing a "Key Vote letter" to Capitol Hill.
  • Creating a grassroots mobilization page to increase voters' letters to Congress in support of Barrett.
  • Encouraging key members of the Chamber to elevate Barrett's platform and explain why her confirmation is aligned with the business community’s priorities.
  • Launching a social media campaign advocating for her confirmation.
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