The U.S. Chamber of Commerce last week endorsed Rep. Robin Hayes (R), who’s locked in what may turn into a tight rematch with high school teacher Larry Kissell (D).

“Hayes has been a champion for the people of North Carolina and an invaluable leader on important business issues,” Bill Miller, the group’s political director, said in a statement. “The Chamber believes Rep. Hayes will continue to be an effective legislator and supporter of businesses of every size if re-elected.”

Hayes beat Kissell by 330 votes in 2006, when the challenger received no help from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Early in the cycle this go-round, however, the committee enlisted Kissell to run again. DCCC Chairman Chris Van Hollen (Md.) recently campaigned on his behalf in the state and hosted a fundraiser for him in Raleigh.

— Matthew Murray