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Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) was honored this week on Capitol Hill by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and presented with the Spirit of Enterprise Award for her pro-business record during the first session of the 111th Congress.

“America’s entrepreneurs, innovators and business owners will fuel the recovery from today’s recession,” Foxx said. “That’s why I am proud of my record of helping small businesses and entrepreneurs survive, create jobs and emerge from this economic downturn.”

Eligibility for the award is based on how Members of Congress vote on key business issues, which the Chamber outlines in its annual 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 award.

“The Chamber applauds Representative Foxx for supporting the private sector and job growth through these difficult times,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. “She has demonstrated great courage and we commend her.”

According to the scorecard, Representative Foxx maintained a 73% rating with the Chamber this year and collectively holds a 78% ranking during her tenure in Congress. The Chamber scored Congress on 7 Senate and 15 House votes in 2009, including the economic stimulus package, legislation to promote the U.S. as a travel destination abroad, and both the House and Senate healthcare reform bills.

For a high-resolution photo of the Spirit of Enterprise award presentation please click here. To view a complete list of the 2009 Spirit of Enterprise recipients, please visit
www.uschamber.com/soe.