WATERTOWN, MA — The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCAER) released its Congressional (House and Senate) Endorsements for the November 5, 2002, General Election (complete list is provided below).

The endorsements were based on Candidates’ records of support on the diverse issues of concern to Armenian Americans. Some of the criteria used to determine endorsements were: votes on or co-sponsorship of key legislations, favorable public statements, and relations with the Armenian American community.

“For years the ANCA has provided voters insight on what candidates have done to support issues of special concern to the Armenian American community,” stated Sharistan Ardhaldjian, chairperson of the ANCA ER. “We urge Armenian Americans to exercise their right to vote in the General Election on November 5th, helping those candidates who have been true supporters of so many important issues,” continued Ardhaldjian.

In 2002, the ANCA endorsed many long-time friends and several newcomers. For complete coverage of the ANCA ER endorsements and grades for the entire 107th Congress, individuals may obtain a copy of the October 12, 2002, Armenian Weekly or click here to view the Acrobat (.pdf) version.

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

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ELECTION 2002
ARMENIAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE OF AMERICA EASTERN REGION: CONGRESSIONAL ENDORSEMENTS

During the 107th Congress, US Representatives had several opportunities to support issues of special concern to the Armenian American community. That support was the basis of the Armenian National Committee of America’s (ANCA) grades for the 107th Congress as well as for the ANCA’s endorsements for the 2002 Election. In determining graces for each Member of Congress, the ANCA considered a broad range of factors including:
– Co-sponsorship and votes on key legislation
– Favorable public statements
– Advocacy at the Subcommittee and Committee level
– Relations with local Armenian American community

Among the key legislation and other initiatives considered by the ANCA when grading US Representatives were:

Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues: Founded in 1995, the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues is a bipartisan forum to foster increased cooperation between the United States and Armenian governments and to strengthen the enduring bonds between the American and Armenian peoples. Co-Chaired by Representatives Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), the Caucus has over 120 members.

Armenian Genocide Special Order on the House Floor (2001, 2002): Delivered remarks on the House Floor during the annual Special Order speeches in commemoration of the Armenian Genocide.

ANCA Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill (2001, 2002): Cosponsored or delivered remarks at the ANCA’s annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Baku Ceyhan Pipeline (H.Con.Res.162): Legislation introduced by Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone, and Rep. John Sweeney (R-NY) expressing growing Congressional opposition to the use of American tax dollars to fund Caspian energy projects that exclude Armenia.

Letter to President Bush on recognizing the Armenian Genocide (2001, 2002): Co-signed a Congressional letter urging President George W. Bush to properly characterize the Armenian Genocide as “genocide” in his annual April 24th statement.

Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act letter to the Secretary of State (2001): Co-signed Congressional letter to Secretary of State Colin Powell urging him “maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act” prohibiting US assistance to the government of Azerbaijan until Azerbaijan lifts its blockade of Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh.

Welcoming His Holiness Karekin II to the United States (H.Con.Res.139): Legislation, introduced by Rep. Roger F. Wicker (R-MS), welcoming His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, on his visit to the United States and commemorating the 1700th anniversary of the acceptance of Christianity in Armenia.

Letter to House Foreign Operations Subcommittee Chairman on Aid to Armenia (2002): Co-signed Congressional letter to Chairman Jim Kolbe (R-AZ) calling for “at least $90 million” in U.S. assistance to Armenia, continued military aid for Armenia, as well as additional funds for projects in Nagorno Karabagh.

Establishing Turkey/Israel Industrial Zones (H.R. 5002): A bill, introduced by Representative Philip Crane (R-IL), which dramatically expands Turkish access to U.S. markets by effectively treating certain Turkish industrial zones as part of the existing U.S.-Israel free trade arrangement. This measure essentially provides duty-free access for Turkish goods, from certain areas within Turkey, to enter U.S. markets.

Cyprus Joining European Union (H.Con.Res.164): Legislation, introduced by Representative Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), expressing the sense of Congress that security, reconciliation, and prosperity for all Cypriots can be best achieved within the context of membership in the European Union.

Turkey’s Claims of Sovereignty Over Islands and Islets in the Aegean Sea (H.Con.Res.97): Legislation, introduced by Representative Robert Andrews (D-NJ), expressing the sense of the Congress regarding Turkey’s claims of sovereignty over islands and islets in the Aegean Sea.

Cutting Aid to Turkey Regarding Continued Occupation of Cyprus (H.R. 2707): Legislation, introduced by Donald Payne (D-NJ), which would restrict U.S. assistance to Turkey until Turkey uses its influence with the Turkish Cypriot leadership to achieve a settlement on Cyprus.

Reopening Halki to Promote Religious Freedom (H.Con.Res.345): Legislation, introduced by Representative Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), expressing the sense of the Congress that the Orthodox Theological School of Halki in the Republic of Turkey be reopened in order to promote religious freedom.

Among the key legislation and other initiatives considered by the ANCA when grading US Senators were:

Resolution Marking Anniversary of Genocide Convention (S.Res.307): Resolution, introduced by Senator Robert Torricelli (D-NJ), recognizing the 15th anniversary of U.S. implementation of the Genocide Convention. The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide confirms that genocide is a crime under international law and defines genocide as actions committed with intent to destroy a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.

Armenian Genocide Senate Floor Speech (2001, 2002): Delivered remarks commemorating the Armenian Genocide.

ANCA Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill (2001, 2002): Cosponsored, attended, or delivered remarks at the ANCA ‘s annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Establishing Turkey/Israel Industrial Zones (S.2663): Legislation, introduced by Senator John Breaux (D-LA), which dramatically expands Turkish access to U.S. markets by effectively treating certain Turkish industrial zones as part of the existing U.S.-Israel free trade arrangement. This measure essentially provides duty-free access for Turkish goods, from certain areas within Turkey, to enter U.S. markets.

Cyprus Joining European Union (S.Con.Res.122): Concurrent resolution, introduced by Senator Olympia Snowe, expressing the sense of Congress that security, reconciliation, and prosperity for all Cypriots can be best achieved within the context of membership in the European Union which will provide significant rights and obligations for all Cypriots, and for other purposes.

Ending Restrictions on Rights of Cypriots (S.Con.Res.28): Concurrent resolution, introduced by Senator Olympia Snowe, which calls for a United States effort to end restrictions on the freedoms and human rights of the enclaved people in the [Turkish] occupied area of Cyprus.

The Eastern Region branches of the ANCA present the following endorsements based on the above-mentioned criteria. Please note that the above list does not include all of the initiatives the ANCA has used in determining Congressional endorsements and grades. Also, districts below represent the Congressional Districts of the 108th Congress determined as a result of the 2000 Census. For a complete list of all the issues or additional information, contact the ANCA ER (617-923-1918; fax: 617-926-5525; email: ancaer@anca.org; url: www.anca.org) or your local ANC.

ARKANSAS

Mike Ross (D-AR 4) B-
A freshman Member of Congress, Rep. Ross cosigned the Congressional letter to President George W. Bush in 2002 urging him properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide as “genocide” in his annual April 24th statement.

CONNECTICUT

John Larson (D-CT 1) B-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Larson cosigned the Congressional letter to President Bush on proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002. He also cosponsored the ANCA’s 8th annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Christopher Shays (R-CT 4) B-
Rep. Shays, who serves on the Armenian Issues Caucus, has supported numerous efforts to commemorate and recognize the Armenian Genocide. He has also supported continued US aid to Armenia.

Nancy L. Johnson (R-CT 5) B
Rep. Johnson has been a long time supporter of efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide. She co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush in 2001 and 2002 and co-signed the letter to the House Foreign Operations Subcommittee Chairman in 2002, calling for at least 90 million in US aid to Armenia and continued military assistance.

DELAWARE

US Senate
Senator Biden (D-DE) B+
Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Sen. Biden has been a consistent supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He supported maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act and Cyprus’s ascension into the European Union.

FLORIDA

Michael Bilirakis (R-FL 9) A
Rep. Bilirakis has been a long time supporter of issues of special concern to Armenian Americans. The Congressman has supported efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide, continue US aid to Armenia, and oppose the funding of the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. He is also a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Adam Putnam (R-FL 12) B-
The youngest Member of the 107th Congress, Rep. Putnam co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush regarding proper commemoration of the Armenian Genocide in 2001.

Illeana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL 18) B-
Rep. Ros-Lehtinen, a member of the powerful International Relations Committee, has continuously advocated for the proper commemoration of the Armenian Genocide since becoming a US Representative in 1989.

E. Clay Shaw, Jr. (R-FL 22) B-
Recently joining the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Shaw delivered remarks during the annual Special Order speeches in commemoration of the Armenian Genocide on the House Floor in 2002.

GEORGIA

US Senate
Max Cleland (D-GA) A-
During his first term in the Senate, Senator Cleland has supported a number of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He recently cosponsored Senate Resolution 307 commemorating United States adoption of the UN Genocide Convention. He also supported maintaining restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan until Azerbaijan lifts its blockade of Armenia and Karabagh.

John Lewis (D-GA 5) B-
Rep. Lewis cosponsored the 8th annual ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. In 2002, he also co-signed a Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

ILLINOIS

US Senate
Richard Durbin (D-IL) A
A member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, Senator Durbin cosponsored S.Res.307, commemorating the 15th anniversary of the US adoption of the Genocide Convention. He consistently supported maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act prohibiting US aid to Azerbaijan and supported Cyprus’ efforts to join the European Union.

Bobby L. Rush (D-IL 1) B+
Rep. Rush, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has supported a number of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. In 2001 and 2002, he co-signed the letter to President Bush calling for appropriate recognition of the Armenian Genocide. He also cosponsored H.Con.Res.162, which opposes the use of American tax dollars to fund Caspian energy projects that exclude Armenia.

Jesse L. Jackson (D-IL 2) B-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Jackson has continuously supported Congressional efforts to commemorate and recognize the Armenian Genocide.

William O. Lipinski (D-IL 3) A-
Rep. Lipinski, who serves on the Armenian Issues Caucus, spoke on the House Floor during Special Order speeches in recognition of the Armenian Genocide, in 2001. He cosponsored the 8th annual ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. In 2001 and 2002, he cosigned the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to properly characterize the Armenian Genocide in his annual April 24th statement.

Luis V. Gutierrez (D-IL 4) B-
In 2001 and 2002, Rep. Gutierrez, co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to properly commemorate the annihilation of 1.5 million Armenians from 1915-1923 as “genocide.”

Mark S. Kirk (R-IL 10) A+
A freshman member of Congress, Rep. Kirk has proven to be a valuable advocate of the many issues of concern to the Armenian American community. The Congressman has supported all of the various efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide. He has advocated for continued US aid to Armenia. Rep. Kirk opposes the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. He has argued in support of self-determination for Nagorno Karabagh, and maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. He is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Jerry Weller (R-IL 11) B
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Weller spoke on the House Floor during the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches in 2002. He also co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush on the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002.

Jerry Costello (D-IL 12) A+
Rep. Costello, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has been a strong supporter of many issues of concern to Armenian Americans. Throughout his eight terms in Congress, Rep. Costello has continuously supported efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide and increase US assistance to Armenia.

Lane Evans (D-IL 17) B-
In 2002, Rep. Evans co-signed the Congressional Armenian Genocide letter to President Bush on recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

John Shimkus (R-IL 19) B
In his third term, Rep Shimkus cosigned the letters to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide. Rep Shimkus also joined the ANCA as a cosponsor of the 8th annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

INDIANA

Peter J. Visclosky (D-IN 1) A
Rep. Visclosky, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has been a consistent advocate of a number of issues of importance to Armenian Americans since being elected to the House of Representatives in 1984. He cosponsored the 8th annual ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. Year after year he has given remarks during the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches on the House Floor.

Mark Souder (R-IN 3) A+
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Souder has distinguished himself as a consistent advocate of issues of concern to his Armenian American constituents. He has supported efforts to maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, to increase US assistance to Armenia. Rep. Souder has supported all of the Congressional efforts to commemorate and recognize the Armenian Genocide.

IOWA

US Senate
Tom Harkin (D-IA) B+
Serving his 3rd term and a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, Senator Harkin supported efforts to maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Act. He also supported Cyprus’ efforts to join the European Union.

KENTUCKY

US Senate
Mitch McConnell (R-KY) A
A member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, Senate McConnell has consistently called for increasing US aid to Armenia. In 2002, he cosponsored the ANCA’s 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. Sen. McConnell led efforts to maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act restricting US aid to Azerbaijan until Azerbaijan lifts its blockade of Armenia and Karabagh.

LOUISIANA

US Senate
Mary Landrieu (D-LA) B
During her first term, Senator Landrieu cosponsored Senate Resolution 307 marking the anniversary of US adoption of the UN Genocide Convention and recognizing the Armenian Genocide. She is a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee.

MAINE

Thomas Allen (D-ME 1) B+
In 2001 and 2002, Rep. Allen co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush which advocated proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. He has reached out to his Armenian American constituents. Rep. Allen recently joined the Armenian Issues Caucus.

MASSACHUSETTS

US Senate
John Kerry (D-MA) A-
Since his election in 1984, Senator Kerry, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, has supported numerous issues of concern to the Armenian American community. In 2002, he cosponsored Senate Resolution 307, reaffirming support of the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. He led the initial effort to implement restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan and consistently supported maintaining those restrictions on aid. He cosponsored the ANCA’s 8th annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

John Olver (D-MA 1) A-
Rep. Olver, a member of the Armenian Issues, Caucus, has consistently supported Congressional efforts to recognize and properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide.

Richard Neal (D-MA 2) B
Rep. Neal, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has supported many issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He has reached out to the Armenian American community in Western Massachusetts by participating in various local events.

James P. McGovern (D-MA 3) A+
Representing the oldest Armenian American community in the US, Rep. McGovern, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has been a consistent advocate of issues of concern to his Armenian American constituents. He supported all of the issues that were of critical importance to Armenian Americans in the 107th Congress and has engaged in regular relations with the Central Massachusetts Armenian American community. Rep. McGovern co-hosted the ANCA 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Barney Frank (D-MA 4) A
A long time supporter of the many issues of concern to the Armenian American community, Rep. Frank, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, cosponsored H.Con.Res.162, supported efforts to maintain Section 907, and attended and cosponsored the ANCA’s Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. He has supported all Congressional efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Martin T. Meehan (D-MA 5) A-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Meehan, has supported the diverse issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He has also maintained a continuous dialogue with his Armenian American constituency.

John F. Tierney (D-MA 6) A+
Concluding his third term in Congress, Rep. Tierney, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has supported increased aid to Armenia, maintaining Section 907, and all Congressional efforts to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. He has also met with the Armenian American community in his district.

Edward J Markey (D-MA 7) A-
Rep. Markey has a long record of support of efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide. He has cosponsored the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, signed Congressional letters to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide, and has offered remarks on the House Floor commemorating the Armenian Genocide. He is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Michael Capuano (D-MA 8) A-
As a sophomore, Rep. Capuano, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, offered remarks on the House Floor commemorating April 24th. In 2001 and 2002 he co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to properly remember the Armenian Genocide as “genocide.”

Stephen Lynch (D-MA 9)
A freshman Member elected during the 107th Congress following the death of Rep. Joe Moakley, Rep. Lynch started off with a bang. He has supported many of the issues of interest to the Armenian American community and recently joined the Armenian Issues Caucus.

William Delahunt (D-MA 10) B
A member of the prestigious House International Relations Committee and the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Delahunt cosigned letters to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002.

MARYLAND

Benjamin Cardin (D-MD 3) B
Rep. Cardin has long supported initiatives to recognize the Armenian Genocide. He cosponsored the 8th Annual ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. In 2001 and 2002, he cosigned the letter to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide in his annual April 24th statement.

Steny Hoyer (D-MD 5) A+
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Hoyer has been a long time supporter of many issues including proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide, continued aid to Armenia, and restrictions on aid to Azerbaijan. The Congressman also attended the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance in 2001 and cosponsored the annual event in 2001.

Constance Morella (R-MD 8) A+
A long time friend and leader of the many issues of concern to the Armenian American community, Rep. Morella is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus. Throughout her eight terms in Congress, she has continuously advocated for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide, US aid to Armenia, and maintaining Section 907.

MICHIGAN

US Senate
Carl Levin (D-MI) A+
Senator Levin continues to be a strong supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian Americans. He has consistently supported efforts to properly recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide, including speaking on the Senate Floor on April 24, 2002 on the 87th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Sen. Levin also cosponsored Senate Resolution 307 and the 2002 ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Vernon Ehlers (R-MI 3) B-
In 2001 and 2002, Rep Ehlers co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. The Congressman is also a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Dale Kildee (D-MI 5) B-
During the 107th Congress, Rep. Kildee supported efforts to increase US aid to Armenia as well as efforts to commemorate and recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Fred Upton (R-MI 6th) B-
Rep. Upton is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus. In 2002 he co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush, urging him to properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide.

Michael Rogers (R-MI 8) B-
Rep. Rogers, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, co-signed the letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide in 2002.

Joe Knollenberg (R-MI 9) A+
Co-Chair of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Knollenberg has consistently led a number of Congressional initiatives of particular concern to Armenian Americans. He has co-hosted many of the ANCA Annual Capitol Hill Observances of the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Knollenberg has continuously called for the proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide and has condemned Turkey’s policy of denial. He has also led efforts to increase US aid to Armenia and continuously advocated to maintain the ban on US aid to Azerbaijan.

Sander Levin (D-MI 12) A+
First elected in 1982, Rep. Levin has been a long time supporter of issues of importance to the Armenian American community. He has supported efforts to include Armenia in pipeline projects in the Caspian, properly recognize the Armenian Genocide, and increase US aid to Armenia. The Congressman attended the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance in 2001. Rep. Levin is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-MI 13) B-
In 2002, Rep. Kilpatrick, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, co-signed the Congressional letter urging President Bush to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide.

John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI 14) B
Rep. Conyers, cosponsored and attended the 2002 8th Annual Capitol Hill Armenian Genocide Observance. The Congressman also co-signed the 2002 letter to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide.

John Dingell (D-MI 15) B+
In 2001 and 2002, Rep. Dingell spoke out on the House Floor during Special Order speeches commemorating the Armenian Genocide. He also co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush in 2001 and 2002 calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. The Congressman is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

MINNESOTA

US Senate
Paul David Wellstone (D-MN) A
Senator Wellstone, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, has been a long time supporter of proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. This year he cosponsored Senate Resolution 307, recognizing the 15th anniversary of US implementation of the Genocide Convention. He also supported maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act.

Colin Peterson (D-MN 7) B-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Peterson co-signed the 2002 Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

MISSOURI

Karen McCarthy (D-MO 5) B-
Recently joining the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. McCarthy co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide in 2002.

NORTH CAROLINA

US Senate
Elizabeth Dole (R)
Candidate Dole has been a consistent advocate of Armenian American issues. In 2001, when Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act came under attack (it later was waived by President Bush), Dole stated, “this provision of law, enacted in 1992, should remain in place until Azerbaijan has met its terms, specifically by ending its illegal blockades against the people of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh.” She promises to be an advocate of many of the issues of concern to the Armenian American community.

David Price (D-NC 4) B-
A member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, in 2002, Rep. Price co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

NEW JERSEY

Robert Andrews (D-NJ 1) A
Rep. Andrews has been a long time supporter of issues of special concern to Armenian Americans. He has continuously called for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and increased Aid to Armenia. In 2001 and 2002, he attended the ANCA’s Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Andrews is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Frank Lobiondo (R-NJ 2) B+
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep Lobiondo has supported many efforts to commemorate and recognize the Armenian Genocide. He has also supported initiatives to increase aid to Armenia.

Jim Saxton (R-NJ 3) A-
During his 9th term in Congress, Rep. Saxton supported H.Con.162; he co-signed the letter to Secretary Powell on maintaining the ban on aid to Azerbaijan, and various efforts to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Saxton is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Christopher Smith (R-NJ 4) A-
Rep. Smith has been a consistent advocate of measures to recognize the Armenian Genocide. During this Congress, he opposed the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline, co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide, and spoke out during Special Order speeches in commemoration of the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002.

Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ 6) A+
Co-Chair of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Pallone has consistently led the many issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He has called for the proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide and has denounced Turkey’s policy of denial. He has led efforts in support of continued US aid to Armenia, restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan, and decreasing US aid to Turkey. He has attended many of the ANCA’s Capitol Hill Observances of the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Pallone has visited Armenia many times, including a recent trip during which he observed the Presidential elections in Nagorno Karabagh.

Michael Ferguson (R-NJ 7) A-
As a Freshman Congressman, Rep. Ferguson supported continued aid to Armenia and recognition of the Armenian Genocide. In 2001 and 2002 he made remarks during the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches, cosigned the letters to President Bush, and cosponsored the 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Steven Rothman (D-NJ 9) A+
Rep. Rothman supported a wide variety of issues of interest to Armenian Americans. He opposed funding the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline, supported maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, supported increased aid to Armenia, spoke out during Special Order speeches regarding the Armenian Genocide, attended the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, and co-signed the Congressional Armenian Genocide letters to President Bush in 2001 and 2002. Rep. Rothman is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Donald Payne (D-NJ 10) B
Rep. Payne, a member of the International Relations Committee, cosponsored, attended, and spoke at the ANCA 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. He co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ 11) B
Rep. Frelinghuysen, a member of the Appropriations Committee, spoke out during the Special Order speeches commemorating the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002. He also co-signed the 2002 Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Rush Holt (D-NJ 12) A
During his 2nd term, Rep. Holt, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, supported a variety of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He called for continued aid to Armenia, cosponsored, attended and spoke at the 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, and gave remarks during the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches in 2001.

Robert Menendez (D-NJ 13) A-
Rep. Menendez is a member of the International Relations Committee and the Armenian Issues Caucus. He opposed the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline, cosponsored the 2002 Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, and supported numerous efforts to properly recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide.

NEW YORK

Steve Israel (D-NY 2) B
Rep. Israel, a Freshman Member of Congress, joined the Armenian Issues Caucus. He supported H.Con.162 and urged President Bush to properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide in his April 24, 2002 statement.

Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY 4) A-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. McCarthy has participated in the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches on the House Floor in both 2001 and 2002. She supported H.Con.162, continued US aid to Armenia, and cosigned the Congressional letter to Secretary Powell on maintaining Section 907. Rep. McCarthy also supported efforts to commemorate the Armenian Genocide.

Gary Ackerman (D-NY 5) A-
Rep. Ackerman has been a long time supporter of many of the issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus and cosigned the Congressional letter to President Bush in 2001 and 2002 calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. He has supported increasing US aid to Armenia and he opposes the Baku Ceyhan pipeline since it excluded Armenia.

Joseph Crowley (D-NY 7) A
Rep. Crowley, a Sophomore, continued to build upon his impressive record of support for Armenian American issues. He has cosponsored and participated in the ANCA’s Annual Capitiol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, participated in the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches, and co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush on properly recognizing the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Crowley has supported efforts to increase aid to Armenia and led the fight to include Armenia in any pipeline projects in the Caspian. He is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus and consistently participates in local Armenian American events.

Jerrold Nadler (D-NY 8) B
Rep. Nadler cosponsored the ANCA’s Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide Observance in 2002 and cosigned the Congressional letters to President Bush in 2001 and 2002.

Anthony David Weiner (D-NY 9) A
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Weiner supported a number of issues of importance to Armenian Americans. He has supported continued US aid to Armenia, opposed the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline, and supported several Congressional efforts to recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide.

Edolphus Towns (D-NY 10) B
A cosponsor of the 2002 ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide, Rep. Towns also supported continued US Aid to Armenia and co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush in 2001 and 2002 calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Nydia Velazquez (D-NY 12) B-
Rep. Velazquez co-signed the 2002 Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. She also spoke out during the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches in 2001.

Carolyn Maloney (D-NY 14) A
Rep. Maloney, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has been a consistent supporter of the many areas of interest to the Armenian American community. She has supported continued US aid to Armenia and efforts to recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Maloney also favored including Armenia in any pipeline projects in the Caspian.

Charles Rangel (D-NY 15) B
Rep. Rangel sent a letter to President Bush opposing H.R.5002, which allows duty-free access for Turkish goods entering U.S. markets. Rep. Rangel is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Eliot Engel (D-NY 17) B-
A member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Engel co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002.

Nita Lowey (D-NY 18) A
Earning an “A” for the her 4th consecutive term, Rep Lowey, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, has consistently supported the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and continued US aid to Armenia. She has also advocated maintaining the ban on US assistance to Azerbaijan and favored Armenia’s inclusion in any Caspian pipeline projects.

Sue Kelly (R-NY 19) A
Rep. Kelly cosponsored and attended the ANCA Congressional Observance of the Armenian Genocide in 2002. She has supported efforts to increase US aid to Armenia and a number of initiatives to recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Kelly is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

John Sweeney (R-NY 20) A+
One of two Members of Congress of Armenian descent, Rep. Sweeney is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus. He has continuously participated in the Armenian Genocide Special Order speeches on the House Floor and has attended several ANCA Congressional Observances. Rep. Sweeney supported maintaining restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan.

Michael McNulty (D-NY 21) A+
Rep. McNulty continues to be a strong supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He has supported efforts to recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide, increase US aid to Armenia, and restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan. Rep. McNulty is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Maurice Hinchey (D-NY 22) A
A member of the powerful Appropriations Committee and the Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep. Hinchey has supported efforts to increase US aid to Armenia, properly recognize the Armenian Genocide, and maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. He opposed Caspian pipeline projects that exclude Armenia.

James Walsh (R-NY 25) B-
During the 107th Congress, Rep. Walsh co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush urging him to properly commemorate the Armenian Genocide in his annual April 24th statement.

OHIO

Marcy Kaptur (D-OH 9) B-
In 2002, Rep. Kaptur co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide. She is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Dennis Kucinich (D-OH 10) B
Rep. Kusicinch, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, co-signed the 2001 Congressional letter to President Bush which urged him to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Sherrod Brown (D-OH 13) A-
Since his election in 1992, Rep. Brown has supported a number of issues of concern to Armenian Americans. He supported the inclusion of Armenia in any pipeline project in the Caspian and co-signed the Congressional letter to Secretary Powell in support of the maintaining Section 907

Steven LaTourette (D-OH 14) B+
Rep. LaTourette, a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus, co-signed a Congressional letter in 2002 calling for at least 90 million in US aid to Armenia and continued military assistance. In 2001 and 2002, he co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide and cosponsored the ANCA’s Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide in 2002.

PENNSYLVANIA

Chaka Fattah (D-PA 2) B-
Serving his 4th term in Congress, Rep. Fattah recently joined the Armenian Issues Caucus. In 2002, he co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush urging him to use the term “genocide” when referring to the Ottoman Empire’s annihilation of 1.5 million Armenians from 1915 to 1923.

Joseph Hoeffel (D-PA 13) A-
A member of the International Relations Committee and Armenian Issues Caucus, Rep Hoeffel supported continued US aid to Armenia and efforts to include Armenia in Caspian pipeline projects. He co-sponsored the 2002 ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide and co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush in 2002 calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

George Gekas (R-PA 17) A-
Rep. Gekas cosponsored and attended the ANCA’s 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. In 2001 and 2002, he spoke out on the House Floor commemorating the Armenian Genocide. He also co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush on recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

RHODE ISLAND

US Senate
Jack Reed (D-RI) A+
An advocate of many issues of concern to the Armenian American community, Senator Reed has co-hosted a number of the ANCA’s Capitol Hill Observances of the Armenian Genocide. He cosponsored Senate Resolution 307 and spoke out on the Senate Floor on April 24, 2002 calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Sen. Reed has supported efforts to maintain restrictions on US assistance to Azerbaijan. He is a member of the Appropriations Committee.

Patrick Kennedy (D-RI 1) A+
Since his election in 1994, Rep. Kennedy has consistently supported many issues of concern to the Armenian American community. Rep. Kennedy has supported efforts to properly recognize the Armenian Genocide, increase US aid to Armenia, maintain Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, and including Armenia in Caspian pipeline projects. Rep. Kennedy is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

James Langevin (D-RI 2) A+
As a Freshman member, Rep. Langevin has proven to be a true supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He has been a vocal advocate of commemorating and recognizing the Armenian Genocide by co-signing the Congressional letters to President Bush and co-sponsoring and attending the ANCA’s Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Langevin has supported efforts to increase US assistance to Armenia and has opposed the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. He regularly meets with his Armenian American constituents in Washington and Rhode Island and is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Joe Wilson (R-SC 2)
Elected to fill a vacant seat during the 107th Congress, Rep. Wilson has established himself quickly as supporter of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He cosponsored the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide in 2002, supported increasing US assistance to Armenia, and co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

VIRGINIA

Eric Cantor (R-VA 7) A
A Freshman, Rep. Cantor has supported many issues of concern to the Armenian American community. He cosponsored, attended, and spoke at the ANCA’s 8th Annual Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide and numerous efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide. He opposed the exclusion of Armenian in the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. He is a Member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.

Frank Wolf (R-VA 10) B
Rep. Wolf co-signed the Congressional letters to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide in 2001 and 2002. He also cosponsored the 2002 ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

WISCONSON

Paul Ryan (R-WI 1) B
In 2001 and 2002, Rep. Ryan co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide. He cosponsored the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Tammy Baldwin (D-WI 2) B-
A sophomore Member of Congress, in 2002 Rep. Baldwin co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide and cosponsored the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide.

Jerry Kleczka (D-WI 4) B+
Rep. Kleczka has supported a number of issues of concern to the Armenian American community. Earlier this year, he co-signed a Congressional letter calling for an increase in US aid to Armenia. In 2001 and 2002, Rep. Kleczka co-signed the Congressional letter to President Bush calling for proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide; in 2002 he cosponsored the ANCA Capitol Hill Observance of the Armenian Genocide. Rep. Kleczka is a member of the Armenian Issues Caucus.