Washington, DC - The Drum Major Institute for Public Policy (DMI), a non-partisan, non-profit think tank in Washington recognized Congressman John Dingell (D-MI15) for his efforts protecting America’s working families. The DMI awarded the Congressman with an A grade for his work on behalf of middle class Americans during the second session of the 110th Congress.

The efforts of all Members of Congress who have received top marks will be honored in a short morning ceremony on Capitol Hill on March 31, 2009.  The time and details of the event are still being finalized.

“Some of the issues and causes the DMI is most concerned about are issues that I am fighting for and have fought for from decades,” Dingell said. “The DMI has its roots in the civil rights movement, an era of profound and important change in our country. The Institute continues to be a leading voice for the middle class and it is an honor to receive this praise for an organization like this one.”

The DMI issues annual scorecards analyzing the impact of domestic legislation on America’s current and aspiring middle class.  Grades are based upon a review of Congressional Members’ votes on issues effecting working families, including children’s health insurance, consumer product safety and affordable housing. Some of the votes DMI looked at this year include the Paycheck Fairness Act of 2008, The American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 , The College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008, as well. The report card can be found at the DMI website, www.themiddleclass.org.

Congressman Dingell also received an A grade last year for his votes in the first session of the 110th Congress.