Today, Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah) was named a top conservative by the American Conservative Union (ACU) for his congressional achievements in 2013. Since 1971, the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization has annually graded Members of Congress based on their votes on key conservative issues. 

The 2013 ACU Ratings of Congress includes scores for each individual member in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. “ACU Conservatives,” are members recognized for scoring 80 percent or higher.

“Conservatives have a responsibility to fight the out-of-control growth of government in Congress. We are proud to honor the fine work of Rep. Stewart in that battle,” said Al Cardenas, Chairman of ACU.

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before Congress to determine which bills serve as the best barometer for separating those representatives who defend liberty from liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional American values. 

“Since I was sworn into Congress, I have fought to be a conservative voice – working to reduce the size and influence of the government and increase personal freedoms,” Stewart said. “I am honored to be recognized for this award, and will continue to defend America’s core conservative principles.”

Throughout the history of the conservative ratings program, ACU has become the go-to source for determining whether an elected official’s philosophical rhetoric matches his or her record. Its conservative ratings guides provide a comprehensive analysis of the legislative landscape over the preceding year. This differentiates ACU from other guides which may emphasize single areas, like taxes, defense, or social policy. ACU’s scored votes are not announced in advance, ensuring that its scores provide a more accurate reflection of an elected official’s philosophy of government. 

The full 2013 ACU Ratings of Congress guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.