U.S. Chamber Recognizes Rep. Kilmer with Spirit of Enterprise Award
WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) was honored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with its annual Spirit of Enterprise Award, given in recognition of his support for pro-economic, pro-growth policies in the second session of the 115th Congress.
“I am committed to growing jobs and to bringing more economic opportunities to more people in more places. It’s a real honor to receive the Spirit of Enterprise Award for those efforts,” said Rep. Kilmer. “I grew up in Port Angeles and I know first-hand that, even when places like Seattle are booming, the story is often different for folks living outside the shadow of the Space Needle. That’s why I am laser focused on supporting our local employers and working to grow the economic pie for our region. I want to ensure everyone – regardless of where they live – has the opportunity to earn a good living in our ever-changing economy.”
“Every day, all across the country, America’s business owners and job creators serve their communities and strengthen their economies. We commend those leaders in Washington who recognize the vital role these businesses play and support them through commonsense, growth-oriented policy,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “By advancing good legislation, Representative Kilmer is helping businesses grow and thrive, keeping our economy strong, and promoting the free enterprise system that drives opportunity and prosperity.”
“This award highlights the hard work Representative Kilmer engages in daily as a champion of small business in the South Sound and across Washington state,” said Tom Pierson, President & CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. “Representative Kilmer understands that small businesses and the middle class are the backbone of the American economy and works hard for us every day – we need more Members like him in Congress!”
“On behalf of the largest business association on the Olympic Peninsula, and the entire Port Angeles community where he was born and raised, we congratulate Representative Kilmer for selection to the 2019 Spirit of Enterprise Award,” said Marc Abshire, Executive Director, Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce. “We are fortunate to be represented by one of our own, who works diligently every day to do all he can to support prosperity, sensible growth, and a strong economy in the far northwest of Washington’s 6th Congressional District.”
“Representative Kilmer has been a staunch advocate for the business community and the critical role it plays in elevating our region’s quality of life,” said Dru Garson, CEO, Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. “We are very appreciative of his ongoing efforts to strengthen and bolster our local economy.”
“Representative Kilmer knows that local business is at the heart of every community,” said Denise Frey, President/CEO, Bremerton Chamber of Commerce. “Whether it’s a huge industry such as the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility or an entrepreneur with a great idea, he consistently leverages his role to support local business.”
“Congratulations to Representative Derek Kilmer on receiving the ‘Spirit of Enterprise’ award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce,” said Rex Oliver, President/CEO, Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce. “Representative Kilmer’s visits to local businesses are important because he meets them on their ‘own turf.’ They appreciate Derek coming and talking to them and answering questions regarding what is happening in Washington.”
“Representative Derek Kilmer has been a tireless advocate to support small businesses, and recognizes them as the backbone of resilient, rural communities,” said Brian Kuh, Executive Director, EDC Team Jefferson. “We remain grateful for Derek’s efforts and strong leadership in Congress to support our region. This award is a reflection of his good work.”
The Chamber’s prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Award is given annually to members of Congress based on their votes on critical business legislation as outlined in the Chamber’s How They Voted scorecard. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.
