Bluffdale Mayor Claudia Anderson has been selected as a 2006 Republican of the Year for Utah, the National Republican Congressional Committee's Business Advisory Council has announced.

The award is given to business and community leaders from each state who have championed the free-enterprise system and supported the ideals of smaller government, lower taxes and less regulation.

"I am extremely grateful for the tremendous support that Claudia has shown for our party, especially in this critical election year," said Rep. Tom Reynolds, R-N.Y., the national committee's chairman.

The award qualifies Anderson for the Business Advisory Council's Congressional Medal of Distinction, which will be awarded this fall.