Paul Receives Another Honor from Taxpayer Group

FOR RELEASE: June 2, 2000

Washington, D.C. - Last week, Congressman Ron Paul was named a "Taxpayer Hero" by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste for his voting record during 1999. The CCAGW, America's largest fiscal watchdog group, gave Paul one of the best ratings in Congress for his votes to cut waste in Washington. The group's president, Thomas A. Sehatz, said Paul is a rare breed on Capitol Hill.

"Rep. Paul is a lawmaker willing to stand up against the special interests in Washington," said Sehatz. "He has worked tirelessly on behalf of not only his own constituents, but all taxpayers. Throughout the session, he voted consistently with the taxpayer to cut wasteful spending, eliminate the national debt, and curb an out-of-control federal bureaucracy. Taxpayers need to know who is part of the waste problem and who is part of the solution."

Paul has been raking in the awards this month for his voting record on fiscal issues. Two weeks ago, the independent, nonpartisan National Taxpayers Union named him the "Taxpayers Best Friend" for 1999. Their president, John Berthoud, said more members of Congress would have to join Paul in fighting for taxpayers if we are to avoid a major economic downturn.

"Ron Paul and his tax-fighting colleagues in Congress may have forestalled a fiscal free fall," Berthoud said. "But until most members of Congress can consistently bring themselves to vote for taxpayers interests more often than special interests, Americans may be in for a bumpy ride in years to come."

While many elected officials decide how to vote on legislation based on opinion polls, Paul is unwavering in his defense of the taxpayer and his commitment to limited government. He said it is both humbling and gratifying to be recognized for his efforts in Washington.

Paul said, "During my tenure in Congress, I have worked hard to put the taxpayer first. It is refreshing to see that my efforts have not gone unnoticed. I am glad to see groups like CCAGW and the NTU helping inform the public about what is going on in Congress and how their representatives are voting to spend their hard-earned money."