WASHINGTON, DC —  Senator John Thune today received the National Federation of Independent Business' (NFIB) Guardian of Small Business Award for his strong support of small businesses as demonstrated by his voting record in the 111th Congress. Thune has earned the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award six times since being elected to Congress.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of South Dakota's economy and the economies of many communities around the country," said Thune. "In a time of heightened federal regulations and burdens facing small businesses, we must commit ourselves to promoting policies that support their ability to create jobs and keep the economy moving. I'm honored to receive NFIB's small business award and will continue to work to help advance issues important to small businesses."

"In the 111th Congress, Senator Thune proved that he is a champion of small business," said NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner. "The Guardian of Small Business Award is a token of the deep appreciation that small business owners have for elected officials who promote and protect their right to own, operate, and grow their businesses."

Thune is a member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee.