U.S. Chamber: Sen. Alexander, Sen. Corker and Rep. Duncan received the Spirit of Enterprise Award
On March 26, 2009, the U.S. Chamber recognized 260 Members of Congress with the coveted Spirit of Enterprise award for their pro-business voting records during the second session of the 110th Congress at a special event in Washington, DC. Senator Lamar Alexander, Senator Bob Corker, and Congressman John Duncan were among the honorees.
"In the face of unprecedented economic challenges and in the midst of an election cycle, the 110th Congress made some historic and courageous decisions that impacted the lives of every American," said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. "The Spirit of Enterprise Award identifies those lawmakers that truly stepped up to the plate and demonstrated real leadership in making this country a place where businesses can continue to grow and create jobs."
Eligibility for the award is based on how Members of Congress vote on key business issues, which the U.S. Chamber outlines in its yearly publication How They Voted. These designated "key votes" are recorded floor votes on issues established as priorities on which the Chamber communicates its position prior to the vote. Those members of Congress who support the Chamber's position on at least 70% of those votes receive the Spirit of Enterprise Award.
The U.S. Chamber monitored 8 Senate and 18 House votes in 2008, including the Ledbetter Act to eliminate the statute of limitations for pay discrimination lawsuits, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act, a nuclear cooperation agreement with India, a bill ensuring the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund, and the College Opportunity & Affordability Act to lower tuition costs and streamline the financial aid process.