The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today honored 210 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and 49 members of the U.S. Senate with its annual Spirit of Enterprise Award, given in recognition of their support for pro-growth policies in the first session of the 116th Congress.
“In these uncertain times with daunting economic and social challenges facing our nation, it is imperative that leaders in Washington are focused on propelling American businesses forward to create jobs and economic growth from California to Maine,” said Thomas J. Donohue, CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “As we rebuild our economy, legislators must lead by pursuing bipartisan solutions that create jobs and promote a free enterprise system. I’m proud to recognize these 259 Members of Congress for their commitment to driving opportunity and prosperity in America’s workforce and on Main Streets across the nation.”
Today’s scorecard release marks the 32nd year the U.S. Chamber has formally honored lawmakers and the first time in 40 years to update the system of scoring lawmakers. While casting pro-growth votes remains essential, the U.S. Chamber now gives lawmakers credit for showing leadership on positive legislation and reaching across the aisle to get things done. By earning the 2020 Spirit of Enterprise award, Members of Congress have shown their commitment to not only supporting pro-business legislation, but also a commitment to the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward.
Previously, a member’s annual How They Voted score solely reflected how consistently he or she voted with the Chamber’s position on legislation identified as important to the business community. The Chamber will produce individual report cards for all members that will show how the member compares to the rest of the Congress, their party, and their delegation. The new scorecard is made up of three components:
1. Legislative Vote Score (80% of the total score)
2. Legislative Leadership Score (10% of the total score)
3. Bipartisan Engagement Score (10% of total score)
Read more on the scoring process here.
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