The Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce has released its endorsements for candidates on the ballot for the Nov. 7 general election.

Candidates were interviewed on a non-partisan basis by members of the chamber’s Board and Government Relations/Endorsement Committee, led by its chair, Doug Happe. Each candidate was scored using the same process.

The committee interviewed eight candidates all of which were rated: endorsed, or not endorsed.

Endorsed candidates scored high for a business friendly acumen and understands the impact of taxes and regulations that business owners face. Those that chose not to participate in the process are also listed.

The committee rendered questions pertaining directly to the concerns of the business community. The candidates are listed in no particular order.

The chamber endorses:

• Phil Fortunato for state Senator, 31st District. Fortunato understands the challenges that businesses face and continues to work toward a business-friendly Washington. One of his biggest concerns is transportation and how it affects business. Fortunato has many ideas on funding roads in the near future.

• John Urquhart for King County Sheriff. His leadership has increased community police presence and decreased crime by taking a pro-active approach. Urquhart understands the impact crime has on communities.

• Mitzi Johanknecht for King County Sheriff. Johanknecht’s exemplary leadership experience and skills demonstrated to the chamber her ability to protect communities and businesses.

• Nancy Backus for Auburn mayor. The incumbent vows to continue to work for economic development, investment in transportation and protecting the quality of life in Auburn.

• Largo Wales for Auburn mayor. Wales is driven to create further transparency in city finances, supports business and is against further taxation of businesses.

• Claude DaCorsi for Auburn City Council. He will continue to look out for the interests of Auburn residents.

The chamber does not endorse:

• Larry Brown for Auburn City Council. Brown’s business priorities do not align with the chamber priorities.

• Michelle Rylands for state Senator, 31st District. Rylands’ business priorities do not align with the chamber priorities.

Chose not to participate:

Morgan Irwin, Rep., Seat 2, 31st District

Nate Lowry, Rep., Seat 2, 31st District

Yolanda Trout-Manuel, Auburn City Council

Michael Kahler, Auburn City Council

Lynda Osborn, Algona City Council

Dawn Doflemire, Algona City Council

Don Thomson, City of Pacific Council

Stacy Oliveira, City of Pacific Council

Vic Kave, City of Pacific Council

Kerry Garberding, City of Pacific Council