WASHINGTON — Now nearly one month into the 113th Congress, the voting record held by U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, continues.

According to Congressional Quarterly’s 2011 and 2012 vote studies, Upton was one of only nine members in both the House of Representatives and the Senate to have a perfect record of attendance for the entire 112th Congress.

CQ reports that the House held 1,602 roll call votes in 2011 and 2012 combined, while the Senate held 486.

“Voting is the cornerstone of our democratic system, a sacred right to insure our government reflects the will of the people,” said Upton.  “I have been entrusted by the families of southwest Michigan with the great responsibility of making sure their voices are heard in Washington. It is a duty I do not take lightly, which is why I have always made it a priority to be well-informed and present when the important votes need to be cast.”

Upton was listed along with Representatives Adams (R-FL), Conaway (R-TX), LoBiondo (R-NJ), and Womack (R-AR) as well as Sens. Collins (R-ME), Grassley (R-IA), Levin (D-MI) and McConnell (R-KY).

Upton represents Michigan’s Sixth Congressional District, which since the beginning of 2013 is comprised of Allegan, Berrien, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties.

Upton is notably one of the few members of Congress who personally signs all of his legislative mail.