(Washington, D.C.)  The United States Chamber of Commerce today presented Congresswoman Cathy McMorris (WA-05) with its prestigious “Spirit of Enterprise” award for her strong support for pro-economic growth legislation in the first session of the 109th Congress.

“One of my top priorities in Congress to promote economic growth and job creation,” said McMorris. “I am honored to have received this recognition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and will continue to support legislation that will help our Eastern Washington businesses remain competitive and successful.”

“Cathy is a leader who has fought for legislation to spur job creation, increase productivity and keep our economy growing strong,” said Thomas J. Donohue, Chamber President and CEO. “We’re proud to present her with this award on behalf of America’s businesses, both large and small.”

The Chamber awards the “Spirit of Enterprise” based on rankings it gives members of Congress for key business votes outlined in its annual publication, How They Voted. McMorris received a score of 93 percent for her pro-economic growth votes last year.

Chamber-designated “key votes” are recorded floor votes on issues established as priorities by the Chamber’s board of directors and on which the Chamber communicates its position prior to the vote. Members of Congress who support the Chamber’s position on at least 70 percent of key votes receive the “Spirit of Enterprise” award.

For the first session of the 109th Congress, the Chamber scored 27 House votes as key votes. Key votes for 2005 included the class action reform, bankruptcy reform, a comprehensive energy bill, transportation reauthorization legislation, and the U.S. Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement.