Washington, DC - Congressman Charles B. Rangel received a perfect score of an "A" by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) on its 2012 National Scorecard.  The scorecard grades each Member of Congress on his commitment to America’s working families relating to issues such as jobs, workers’ rights, and healthcare. Rangel and his Democratic Colleagues from the New York Congressional Delegation all received perfect scores.

“Working families are at the heart of the American Dream.  They deserve quality healthcare and economic stability," said Rangel. "I am greatly honored to be recognized for my support of working families in our Manhattan Congressional District and across America.”

One of Rangel's greatest legislative achievements on behalf of the American working families was his sponsorship of the Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act.  The legislation ensures that almost all of American working families have health coverage by providing medical care to more than 94% of the American population.  The bill also guarantees that working families with children that have pre-existing conditions, including a disability, will no longer be denied or excluded from receiving health insurance.

"I thank the United Food and Commercial Workers Association for their advocacy on behalf of working families," said Rangel.  "We in Congress have a responsibility to do all we can to promote legislation that protects American workers and their families. It not only spurs growth in the economy but also gives Americans hope in their future.   I will continue, with the support of my Democratic Colleagues, to endorse initiatives to improve job stability, health, and overall well-being of the American family."

Rangel's top priority has been job creation and easing the burden of American families that have been affected by unemployment.  He has been a strong vocal supporter of President Barack Obama's American Jobs Act that would create two million jobs.  He has also continually fought for extensions of the payroll tax cuts that save an average of $1,000 for 160,000 American families as well extending unemployment benefits for over two million Americans.

In addition, Rangel worked hard with his Democratic Colleagues to pass the HIRE ACT which provided a payroll tax credit for companies that hire employees who have been looking for work for 60 days or more.

“On behalf of the 1.3 million members of the UFCW, I commend Congressman Rangel for standing with working families in 2012," stated UFCW's President Joe Hansen. "Receiving an “A” on the UFCW Congressional Scorecard shows his commitment to creating jobs, growing the middle class, and protecting workers’ rights. In a Congress where an overwhelming majority of members received F’s, Congressman Rangel stood out as a true champion of workers.  I look forward to working with him to accomplish even greater things in 2012," he said.

The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union UFCW is North America’s Neighborhood Union.  It has a membership of 1.3 million working to improve the lives of workers, families, and their communities.  The UFCW represents workers in all 50 states and is recognized as America's youngest union, having the greatest percentage of members under the age of 35 than any other union.