The Petroleum and Convenience Marketers Association of Alabama announced its endorsement of State Rep. Rhett Marques in his campaign for Alabama’s 1st Congressional District on Friday, marking the state lawmaker’s first endorsement from a major trade association.

P&CMA, which represents hundreds of small business owners across Alabama’s petroleum and convenience marketing industry, cited Marques’ proven track record of standing up for job creators and advancing pro-business policies during his service in the Alabama Legislature.

“Rhett has been a champion for small business owners, always having their backs in the Alabama Legislature. We know that he will continue to fight for our members when he’s elected to Congress, and we are excited to give him our full support,” said Bart Fletcher, President of P&CMA.

On Friday, Marques (R-Enterprise) said P&CMA members play a tremendous role in the state’s economy.

“The petroleum and convenience industry is a cornerstone of our communities, providing jobs, services, and opportunities across Alabama. I am honored to have P&CMA’s trust and support, and I look forward to continuing to be their voice in Washington,” Marques said.

Marques is running for U.S. Rep. Barry Moore’s (R-Enterprise) seat in Congress as he runs statewide for the U.S. Senate.

Earlier this month, he announced he will square off with Jerry Carl, who is running for his old seat after being defeated by Moore amid federal redistricting.

A first time federal candidate, Marques is picking up steam quickly.

He was endorsed right out of the gate by Alabama’s most popular elected  official, U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery), and yesterday, by Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) and 31 conservative colleagues in the Alabama House.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.