FAIRFIELD — Citing his efforts to cut red tape for businesses, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on Thursday endorsed former Gov. Paul LePage in his run for the U.S. House.

LePage, a Republican two-term governor, is running for the 2nd Congressional District against Democratic State Auditor Matt Dunlap.

At Sheridan Construction in Fairfield, U.S. Chamber representative Stephen McAllister said the group — the largest business organization in the world — was impressed by LePage’s business background and work to reform the permitting process.

“Paul LePage is going to be ready on Day 1,” McAllister said. “He knows exactly what the people of Maine need. He’s going to be a big force in Washington DC, helping our business community.” 

LePage, who served as Waterville mayor and an executive at Marden’s before becoming governor, said he cut taxes while governor and created a program to certify local cities and towns as business friendly.

He also said he will have something Dunlap won’t — a direct line to President Donald Trump.

“The difference between myself and my opponent is I have access to the White House, he won’t,” LePage said.

LePage said during Trump’s first term, he served as a liaison between Trump and then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. When asked about the current tariffs on Canada, LePage said they work as “a negotiating tool.” 

“Unfortunately, Canada has not negotiated with this administration,” he said. “Do I want tariffs? I want them to go away as quick as possible. But in order to have balance both nations have to be able to trade fairly.”

He also vowed to work to lower energy prices for Mainers, saying he would strip subsidies from wind and solar and push for nuclear and hydroelectric power.

“When I go to Washington, I am going to support lower taxes, encourage investment, expand domestic manufacturing, strengthen our energy and particularly here we’ll do everything we can to lower our energy costs,” he said.