Ellison Scores 100% from Alliance for Retired Americans

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Keith Ellison (D-Minneapolis) received a 100 percent voting record according to the Alliance for Retired Americans 2009 Congressional Voting Record. The Fifth District Congressman was one of 183 U.S. House Members to receive the distinction.

“I am honored to be recognized by such a strong advocate for older Americans. The Alliance for Retired Americans is comprised of four million retired trade union members that have given their heart and souls to building our country.  They have educated and inspired generations to work for a world where social, economic and political equality is a reality for all people,” Ellison said.

The 2009 Congressional Voting Record was released this month in recognition of Older Americans Month.  The report grades ten votes by every Member of Congress on issues like the historic passage of health care reform, helping pre-Medicare retirees afford health care, and supporting Medicare-covered preventive screenings for seniors.

“Rep. Ellison had a perfect year on issues affecting retirees and seniors in 2009. Higher scores show a commitment to improve health care, strengthen Medicare, and put seniors ahead of drug and insurance companies,” stated Ed Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.  "In voting to reform health care, Rep. Ellison is helping early retirees with their health costs while eliminating co-payments for Medicare preventive care screenings for seniors.  His votes will also close the Medicare Part D doughnut-hole coverage gap and extend the financial well-being of the Medicare Trust Fund" said Coyle.

“The Alliance for Retired Americans has been at the forefront of preserving the security and dignity of American seniors.  I’m grateful for the tremendous leadership of the Alliance in the fight for comprehensive health care reform and improving Medicare,” Ellison stated.

The complete Congressional Voting Record for 2009 can be viewed at: 
http://www.retiredamericans.org/ht/a/GetDocumentAction/i/16063