What is the Phil Hart Award?

Phil Hart, a liberal Democrat, represented Michigan in the U.S. Senate from 1958 to 1976. Known as  “the conscience of the Senate,” he believed governing was about building a better world for future generations. His causes included education, the environment, civil rights, and economic opportunities for all. Like Harry Truman, Phil Hart lived by the adage "There is no limit to what you can accomplish when you are willing to give someone else credit." He was so esteemed by his Senate colleagues that when Congress opened a new office building in the 1970s, they voted 99 to 0 (with Hart ab staining) to name it after him. It would have been the first federal government building named after a living person, but Phil Hart died of cancer a few days after the vote. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Hart)

In 2006, Clinton County Dems created the Phil Hart Award to honor an individual who embodies Hart’s high ideals and passion for good governance. Each year, we seek nominations for the award which is presented to the person selected at the Spring Fund Raiser.

Phil Hart Award Nominations

How is someone nominated for the Phil Hart Award? If you know someone who exemplifies dedicated public service and commitment to Democratic ideals like Phil Hart, you can nominate her or him for the award. Just write a short (500 words or less) nomination stating why you are nominating the person and describing the characteristics that make your nominee deserving of the award. You can e-mail your nomination to Melany Mack, Membership Chair, at melanymack@comcast.net. Nominations must be received by April 20th. A panel of board members and past award recipients will select the winning nomination.

Other Recognitions

Do you know someone whose outstanding efforts have helped elect Democratic candidates and build the Clinton County Democratic Party? You can nominate that person for a Certificate of Appreciation by submitting her or his name along with a brief description of how they have distinguished themselves in service to the party. Please send your nominations to Melany Mack at melanymack@comcast.net by April 20th to ensure your nominee is considered for the Spring Banquet awards ceremony. A panel of Board members and past award recipients will select the four individuals who will be honored.