The Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), representing top U.S. providers of information technology (IT) products and services, gives the annual award to a leader in high-tech policy.

"As co-chairman of the New Democrats, Congressman Smith is a leader in pro-growth policies and has consistently rallied support within the House Democratic Caucus on new ways of growing our economy," said Rhett Dawson, president of ITI. 

As co-chair of the New Democrat Coalition, Smith has promoted pro-growth policies and investment in the technology sector to ensure that the U.S. leads the way in the New Economy and that all Americans can succeed in it.  These policies range from investing in math and science education and worker retraining to expanding IT infrastructure and encouraging R&D investment.

“American economic leadership has always depended on staying at the forefront of technological innovation,” said Smith.  “I will continue to fight for policies that encourage innovation, economic growth, and good jobs.”