Galesburg Reporter

Rep. Dan Swanson highlighted a local business in an October 10 Facebook post, stating, "Thank you to Marshalltown Hammer at the Vaughan & Bushnell Manufacturing Company for hosting us Wednesday morning as we honor manufacturing businesses in October."

"I am honored to have received the 2023-2024 Champion of Free Enterprise Award from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce," said Swanson, State Representative, according to Facebook. "Thank you to Marshalltown Hammer at the Vaughan & Bushnell Manufacturing Company for hosting us Wednesday morning as we honor manufacturing businesses in October."

According to Swanson, he shared a post from the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA), which noted the start of their day in Bushnell at Marshalltown Hammer, marking the first stop on the day's portion of the "Makers on the Move" statewide tour. The IMA said, "For over 130 years, Marshalltown has been the preferred supplier of tools for bricklaying, concrete, and interior finishing. Last Spring, the company stepped in to acquire Vaughan & Bushnell, leveraging the incredible brand built by five generations of the Vaughan family, to provide customers with an expanded catalog of superior hand tools and equipment." They also expressed gratitude towards State Senator Mike Halpin and Rep. Dan Swanson for joining them to celebrate Illinois' manufacturing industry.

Screenshot of State Rep. Dan Swanson's Oct. 10 Facebook post | State Representative Dan Swanson's Facebook page

In August, the Illinois Chamber announced its 2024 award winners, including those receiving the Champion of Free Enterprise Award. The awards are given to Senators and Representatives with ratings averaging 85% or higher over two General Assemblies who have shown commitment to legislation that supports entrepreneurial spirit. Swanson earned a 100% rating alongside Rep. Charlie Meier, Rep. Dan Ugaste, and Rep. Randy Frese.

Lou Sandoval, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce said: "As we seek to create a vibrant business climate for all businesses in Illinois, it is important to take time to recognize the members of the legislative body who have contributed to creating this vibrant climate." He added that these awards symbolize such efforts and acknowledged their contributions and partnership with the chamber in making Illinois better for business.

Dan Swanson has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2017. He is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the Illinois Army National Guard with multiple retirements following active duty recalls. He also served as superintendent of the Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission and held positions on both the AlWood Board of Education and Henry County Board.