Staff Report
MONTGOMERY—Manufacture Alabama has announced its endorsement of Chris “Chip” Beeker (R-Eutaw) for the Public Service Commission (PSC) Place 2 seat, up for election in 2014.
Beeker said he is honored by the endorsement and added, “From the beginning, the pillars of my campaign have been protecting consumers and keeping utility rates affordable; creating jobs and improving our economy by protecting existing industries while recruiting new ones; and fighting the unconstitutional actions of the Obama administration and his out of control EPA.
“Our manufacturing industry is, unfortunately, facing many of these issues on a daily basis, and I pledge to do all I can to ensure this vital industry continues to thrive.”
Manufacture Alabama’s President, George Clark, cited this philosophy for the association’s endorsement, stating, “Chip Beeker supports the use and availability of all energy sources and is dedicated to protecting ratepayers, industry and economic growth.”
As the leader of a trade association that represents hundreds of companies from a wide range of industries across the state, Clark said: “When the price of energy rises, not only do residential and industrial ratepayers have to pay more but also our state’s business climate is compromised. Competitive and reliable energy drives business.”
From 1986 to 2006, Beeker served on the Greene County Commission and was a Republican officeholder in an area historically dominated by Democrats. From 1996 to 2006, Beeker chaired the commission and is credited with creating economic development opportunities.
Beeker has served as a member of the State Executive Committee of the Alabama Republican Party and ran as a PSC candidate in the 2010 Republican primary. He currently owns and operates Beeker Catfish and Cattle Farms in Eutaw.
