STATEHOUSE (Dec. 7, 2012) — The American Conservative Union (ACU) named State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) a “Defender of Liberty” in its 2012 State Legislative Ratings. She is one of seven Indiana state senators to receive this recognition.

The honor is given to members of state legislatures who score 100 percent on the organization’s grading system. Rankings are determined by lawmakers’ votes on key conservative issues. For the Indiana General Assembly, issues included school choice, states’ rights, government reform and legislation to stop the federal health-care mandate.

“During times of economic instability, when families across the country and state are struggling, it’s vital to have strong conservative voices rooted in fiscal responsibility and efficiency in government,” Leising said. “As a legislator, it’s my job to protect taxpayer money while ensuring needed services and pro-job policies are in place. I’m honored to be recognized by a group that is committed to the conservative ideals that help make Indiana great.”

ACU first began rating members of Congress in 1971. Today, it is considered the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics. To see a full list of rankings, go to http://conservative.org/legislative-ratings.

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