Skip to main content

Congressman Cohen Rated 100% by the Children's Defense Fund

February 28, 2008


“I appreciate this recognition from the Children’s Defense Fund. Since 1973, the CDF has lobbied Congress and the Federal Government exhaustively on behalf of children,” said Congressman Cohen.

The CDF is a private, nonprofit child advocacy and research group, founded in 1973 by Marian Wright Edelman. They are supported entirely through foundation and corporate grants and individual donations and do not take government funds. Their official motto “Leave No Child Behind” espouses the belief of the CDF that every American child deserves a chance to succeed in life. They focus particular attention on the needs of poor and minority children and those with disabilities.

The 2007 CDF Nonpartisan Congressional Scorecard scored ten House votes that directly affect the lives of children. The House votes in this year’s Congressional Scorecard cover a range of issues, including the budget, appropriations, child health, education, tax relief and minimum wage measures. Members not voting and votes cast as “present” are scored as votes against children.

“The health and welfare of children is one of my highest priorities as the Representative of Tennessee’s 9th District,” explained Congressman Cohen. “Memphis has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country, an unacceptable high school drop out rate, and thousands of children trying to survive without health care. As a country we have not always lived up to our responsibility in caring for the needs of children. I commend Ms. Edelman for her years of service on behalf of children and I will continue to be a voice for children’s issues in the Congress.

- 30 -

Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, (202) 225-3265/ (202) 368-9275 (mobile)
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, (202) 225-3265 / (202) 320-2817 (mobile)