by TonyStewart.com

That changed Wednesday, when the U.S. House of Representatives approved a resolution from U.S. Rep. Mike Sodrel of Indiana recognizing Stewart for his 2005 championship. Sodrel, who sponsored the resolution, was joined by other members of the Indiana delegation — Reps. Mike Pence, Dan Burton, Mark Soder, John Hostettler and Julia Carson — as co-sponsors. House Resolution 587 passed unanimously.

Sodrel represents Indiana's 9th Congressional District, which includes Stewart's hometown — and current residence — of Columbus.

"I am proud to honor Mr. Tony Stewart for all of his accomplishments in NASCAR and the world of motorsports by bringing this resolution to the floor of the House of Representatives," Sodrel said. "Hoosiers and racing fans around the world are proud of Tony and his team and we look forward to his continued success."

The resolution cites Stewart for his five 2005 wins, his two series titles in seven seasons, his eight other auto racing championships, his top-10 ranking in each of his NASCAR NEXTEL Cup seasons and particularly his Aug. 7 victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (in the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard). Following that win, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels awarded Stewart the state's highest honor, the Sagamore of the Wabash, on Aug. 29.