Peterson Receives U.S. Chamber's Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship

WASHINGTON- Congressman Collin C. Peterson today received the Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

This new award is one of two unveiled during the First Annual U.S. Chamber of Commerce Governing with Distinction Ceremony. The Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship and the Abraham Lincoln Award for Leadership in America recognize members of Congress who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward.

U.S. Chamber President Suzanne Clark explains, “These awards honor the deserving members of Congress that are forging common-sense sense solutions, working across the aisle, to enact lasting and meaningful reforms. In the days ahead, Congress must work together and support our nation's free enterprise principles that will help bring our economy back to strength and put our people back to work.”

“Unless both parties are willing to work together and compromise, it’s impossible to enact meaningful legislation in our country today,” Peterson said. “These are difficult times for people across the country, and especially for small businesses and rural communities. I’m grateful to the U.S. Chamber for this recognition, and will continue to be a voice of reason in Washington, to represent my constituents and use my experience to move forward common sense ideas.”

The Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship recognizes those members of Congress who in their actions have demonstrated a willingness to work across the aisle in support of common objectives. The Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship is earned by the 10 top scoring senators and 20 top scoring members of Congress, apportioned by party. Rating is based on the number of bills — except those formally opposed by the Chamber — a Member cosponsors introduced by a Member of the opposite party. Similar to Leadership, the Bipartisanship component is calculated on a ranking relative to a Member’s performance compared to members of their own party. The top-ranked of both parties earn 100%. Peterson earned a 99% rating.