The American Conservative Union (ACU) was founded in 1964 to promote the principles of liberty and the strength of the Constitution. As the nation’s largest and strongest grassroots conservative organization, the ACU serves as the umbrella organization for conservatives in America. The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before Congress to determine which issues and votes serve as a dividing line to help separate those members of the U.S. House and Senate who protect liberty as conservatives and those who are truly liberal. Since 1971, the Congressional ratings have become the gold standard in holding every member of Congress accountable for their voting record by scoring some of the most important issues facing our nation. ACU is dedicated to supporting the efforts of courageous conservative leaders fighting for limited government, promoting prosperity and individual freedom, and defending traditional values. As a result, the ACU Ratings of Congress has throughout its 42 editions included a wide variety of issues covering votes on taxes, wasteful government spending, cultural issues, defense and foreign policy. Standing by voters around the nation, ACU is leading the way to encourage and help the next generation of conservative leaders, beginning at the state level. In 2011, ACU brought its commitment to conservative ideals to the states, by rating members in five legislatures. Last year ACU scored 15 states, as part of its five-year plan to bring ratings to all 50 states — scoring every legislature in every state, every session.