from a release by U.S. Rep. John Fleming (R-Minden)…

Representative John Fleming, M.D. announced today that he has received a perfect rating and has been named a Defender of Liberty in the American Conservative Union’s annual 2009 Congressional Ratings. Fleming topped the Louisiana Congressional Delegation with a score of 100%. The ratings are based on a variety of votes in the House of Representatives including votes on the bailout, stimulus, tax increases, health care, and cap and trade. The House overall average for 2009 was 41%. Only 56 members out of 435 received a score of 100%. The American Conservative Union is the oldest membership-based conservative grassroots organization in the United States.

“I came to Congress to represent the values of Northwest Louisiana. The principles of lower taxes, less government, individual responsibility, and a maintaining a strong national defense continue to resonate among my constituents. I am honored to receive this distinction and will continue to fight for the values Louisianans believe in.”

John Fleming is a physician and small business owner and represents the 4th Congressional District of Louisiana. He is a member of the House Armed Services and Natural Resources Committees.

Other ACU ratings for Louisiana’s congressional delegation:

Rep. Steve Scalise (R) – 100 percent (lifetime rating: 100 percent)
Sen. David Vitter (R) – 100 percent (lifetime rating: 93.8 percent)
Rep. Charles Boustany (R) – 96 percent (lifetime rating: 91 percent)
Rep. Bill Cassidy (R) – 88 percent (lifetime rating: 88 percent)
Rep. Rodney Alexander (R) – 88 percent (lifetime rating: 76.6 percent)
Rep. Joseph Cao (R) – 55 percent (lifetime rating: 55 percent)
Rep. Charlie Melancon (D) – 27 percent (lifetime rating: 42.3 percent)
Sen. Mary Landrieu (D) – 16 percent (lifetime rating: 22.7 percent)