ANCA announces 2016 Congressional grades and endorsements

With just 50 days until the November 8th elections, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) this week released its 2016 Congressional grades and endorsements, throwing the Armenian American community’s political and electoral strength behind U.S. House and Senate candidates from more than 30 states with proven track records of support on issues of special concern to Armenian Americans and all friends of Armenia.

“With November 8th just around the corner, the ANCA is pleased, once again, to share comprehensive legislative information and our carefully considered endorsements regarding the Congressional candidates seeking our community’s electoral support,” said Aram Hamparian, Executive Director of the ANCA.  “First and foremost, we encourage everyone to vote! And, whether you’ll be voting Republican, Democratic, Libertarian, Green or for candidates from any other party, it’s vital that you go to the polls fully informed. So please consider our carefully compiled information and fact-based insights as a helpful resource as you weigh who to support this November.”

The ANCA endorsements are based primarily on ANCA Congressional Report Cards, a detailed review of each incumbent’s record across a broad range of Armenian American issues. These Report Cards, prepared in consultation with ANCA Regional offices and local chapters across the country, cover issues ranging from securing a just resolution of the Armenian Genocide, to strengthening U.S.-Armenia relations, defending Nagorno Karabakh’s independence, increasing U.S. aid and trade levels with Armenia, and confronting the genocide of Christians and other minorities in the Middle East. Among the grading criteria were each Member’s willingness to advance pro-Armenian American legislative initiatives (resolutions, letters, etc.), including the Armenian Genocide Truth + Justice Resolution, pro-Armenian provisions of the foreign aid bill, support for common sense solutions for Nagorno Karabakh Peace, and advocacy on behalf of beleaguered Armenian and other Christian communities in the Middle East. Other factors include their membership in the Armenian Caucus, attendance at Armenian civic and community events, and their support for human rights issues related to Cyprus.