"Despite a few encouraging trends, the results from NTU's Rating vividly demonstrate why 2009 was such a fiscal disaster," said NTU President Duane Parde. "For every Member of Congress doing his or her best to relieve overburdened taxpayers, five other lawmakers were doing their worst."

“Now more than ever, Americans need Washington to lessen the burden of taxes and promote investment and growth.  It is foolish to think that we can simply tax, spend and borrow our way back to prosperity.  Real growth will come from small businesses investing and creating jobs, which will continue rebuilding the economy of Western North Carolina,” stated Congressman McHenry.

Every year, the National Taxpayers Union rates U.S. Representatives and Senators on every vote that affects taxes, spending, and debt.  Each vote is weighted based on its effect on federal spending.  In 2009, Congressman McHenry earned an “A” grade, making him one of 55 lawmakers in the House and Senate eligible for the award.