Press Releases

Award recognizes support for pro-growth, job creating policies

WASHINGTON –Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s “Spirit of Enterprise Award” in recognition of his support of pro-growth, pro-jobs policies.

The award is given annually to Members of Congress based on their voting record on critical business legislation. The Spirit of Enterprise Award highlights Rep. Wittman’s strong commitment to bolstering our country’s economy, creating jobs, and keeping our nation’s spirit of enterprise alive.

“Entrepreneurship and free enterprise are the backbone of our economy,” Wittman said, “and yet, small businesses across the Commonwealth and around the country are struggling. Government’s role should be to eliminate barriers to success, not create them. Lawmakers have to get out of the way and let businesses work. The American entrepreneurial spirit—not Washington—is what is guiding our nation’s economy forward, and I will do everything in my power to continue to support our job creators.”

During the second session of the 114th Congress, the Chamber scored members on eight Senate votes and 14 House votes related to access to capital for small businesses, ensuring our workforce has the skills necessary for the jobs of tomorrow, and helping American manufacturers compete in a global economy. In addition, votes in support of building the U.S. water infrastructure system, protecting intellectual property, and updating energy policy also factored into scoring.

“Businesses of all shapes and sizes need sound, commonsense policy in place in order to get off the ground, grow, and succeed,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “The Spirit of Enterprise Award recognizes those members of Congress who have done what’s right for our friends, family, and neighbors running businesses across the country. We applaud Congressman Wittman for his commitment to free enterprise and economic growth.”

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than three million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he is Chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.