Congressman Cannon Again Named “Friend of the Taxpayer” — Earns Highest Rating of Utah House Delegation.

The National Taxpayers Union is a 362,000-member, nonpartisan, nonprofit citizen group founded in 1969 to work for lower taxes, smaller government, and economic freedom at all levels.  On presenting the award to Congressman Cannon, the President of the NTU, Duane Parde, said:

“Chris Cannon’s pro-taxpayer score of 86 percent was one of the best in the entire House/Senate.  By consistently voting to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Chris Cannon has led by example in the fight to ease the burden on taxpayers everywhere. This is an achievement for which he should be proud.”

“If every Member of Congress had voted as responsibly as Chris Cannon did in 2007, Americans could have enjoyed much lower taxes and less waste in government.  Overburdened taxpayers in Utah’s Third District and across the nation owe Chris Cannon a debt of gratitude for his hard work on their behalf. He has truly earned the title ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’”

According to the NTU, Congressman Cannon received an “A” rating and Congressman Bishop received a “B+” rating.  Congressman Matheson, however, received a “D” rating at 24%. 

NTU analyzed every roll call vote taken during 2007 (1st Session of the 110th Congress) and selected all votes that could significantly affect the amounts of federal taxes, spending, debt, or regulatory impact. A total of 427 House and 182 Senate roll call votes were selected. NTU included votes cast on appropriations bills, authorization bills, budget target resolutions, tax bills, amendments, and certain procedural votes that could affect the burden on taxpayers. Votes that simply shifted equal amounts of spending from one area to another were excluded. Also excluded were votes where there was a significant difference of opinion on how to vote to reduce or control government.  The number of votes used in the analysis, the objective and nonpartisan weighting of the votes, computerized calculations, and many error checks all combine to ensure the highest possible standards of accuracy.