Washington, D.C. —  The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), along with Falcon Plastics Inc. of Brookings, today honored Senator John Thune with the Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence. The award is presented to members of Congress who vote in the best interest of the manufacturing economy more than 70 percent of the time. Senator Thune's voting record was 89 percent.

"I'm honored to receive this award for supporting economic growth and job-generating policies in the Senate. I consider supporting and working to implement policies that grow our economy and generate jobs a foremost responsibility as a Member of Congress," Thune said. "Our country's manufacturing industry has played a strong and historic role in the success of our economy, and we must continue to support this important industry to stimulate further growth, create quality jobs for more Americans, and strengthen America's competitiveness on the global stage."

Jay Bender, President of Falcon Plastics Inc., presented Senator Thune with the NAM award and made the following statement:

"On behalf of all manufacturers and their employees in South Dakota, I offer Senator Thune our deep gratitude for his commitment to us and to our nation's manufacturing sector as a whole."

NAM President and former Michigan Governor John Engler also made the following statement:

"Senator Thune's voting record demonstrates both his understanding of manufacturing's critical role in the overall strength of our economy and a willingness to do what is necessary to boost competitiveness, job creation and prosperity for the working people of South Dakota."

Key Manufacturing Votes for the 109th Congress included domestic energy supply, legal reform, free trade agreements, and tax policy, among others.