WASHINGTON D.C. — Fourth Congressional District Rep. Dan Newhouse has been committed to fighting for the rights of senior citizens and that effort was recently recognized and lauded by the 60 Plus Association.

The 60 Plus Association awarded the second-term congressman with the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights award, which is the association’s highest and most coveted award.

“I am honored by the recognition from 60 Plus for efforts to protect senior citizens,” Newhouse said. “The federal government has made promises to senior citizens to provide Medicare and Social Security, and we are responsible for keeping the nation in fiscal order to fulfill those promises.”

Entertainer Pat Boone, spokesman for the 60 Plus Association, made the initial announcement that Newhouse had received the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights award.

“I’m still singing at concerts, but today I’m singing the praises of Congressman Dan Newhouse. Seniors can depend on Dan,” Boone remarked.

The 60 Plus Association is a nonpartisan organization that has support from over 7 million activists. The group has been working to repeal the controversial estate tax, which is also referred to as the “death tax” and is a tax that is placed on the transfer of the estate of a person who has died, and to save Social Security and Medicare. The group has also been a longstanding advocate for affordable prescription drugs, lower energy costs and the implementation of a less government/less tax approach to issues.

“The Guardian Award is given to members in appreciation of their tireless efforts on behalf of senior citizens, as so many of our elderly struggle on a fixed income,” 60 Plus chairman Jim Martin explained. “Seniors have to live within their means and so should our government. Rep. Newhouse will fight to end the ‘Death Tax,’ which negatively impacts small businesses, farmers and ranchers throughout the nation. We also particularly appreciate the efforts by Rep. Newhouse to assure the financial stability of Social Security and Medicare.”

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.