The Taxpayer Association of Oregon recognized the work of the Freedom Foundation and its state director, Aaron Withe, with its annual Thomas Jefferson Award for advancing the ideals of individual liberty and limited government.

The award was presented last weekend at the group’s Oregon Freedom Rally.

Taxpayer Association Executive Director Jason Williams noted, “This year, no doubt we wanted to give it to Aaron Withe of the Freedom Foundation … They are out there telling people they have the right to choose where their money and where their union dues go.”

He added, “Because they came on the scene, nearly 25,000 Oregon union members have now realized that they have a choice and they have said no to having their money being taken away from them.”

Previous winners of the award include Oregon Rep. Greg Walden, Secretary of State Dennis Richardson and Rebecca Tweed of the Defeat Measure 97 campaign.

Withe was delighted to win this award and was sure to thank all of the Freedom Foundation donors, staff and his wife.

“This award wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our donors, and all of our staff that work relentlessly on the front lines every day, he said. “Of course, I want to thank my wife as well, who stands by my side in this fight.”

Withe added, “This work we’re doing is a vital part of reforming this state. You cannot create reform until you remove the undue influence of government unions in Salem. It’s amazing to have our work recognized by others and is a testament to our success.”