Mitch McConnell Campaign Boosted by US Chamber Ad

An advertisement touting Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell as a savior of the Kentucky coal-mining industry is now airing, compliments of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, The Washington Post reported Monday.

The 31-second spot spells out the chamber's support of the Republican incumbent who faces tea-party challenger Matt Bevin in next year's primary election.

The ad, titled "Coal Kills Jobs," focuses on McConnell's opposition to regulations proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency that could hurt the industry.

"Saving coal jobs is the single most important thing we can accomplish," he says in the ad.

According to the story, the chamber has earmarked an estimated $177,000 for air time in markets across the state. The move signifies a trend by the chamber to support establishment-based Republicans over conservative-led Republicans.

The 2014 primary winner will be challenged by Democratic Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes in the general election.

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