Dear Friends,

I ran for Congress just a few years ago because I felt a call to serve the 10th District, and you sent me to Washington, DC to do just that. Together, we provided what so many say our country is missing right now - thoughtful leadership that was able to build bridges between parties, and put people before politics and progress ahead of partisanship.  We succeeded in changing the dialogue to focus on getting our government on a budget and solving the biggest issues we face as a nation.   

As someone who broke the mold and earned a reputation as one of the most independent-thinking, moderate members of Congress, and as someone who was never afraid to work with anybody who shared a desire to solve problems, I share your frustration with the current lack of compromise and the consistent stalemate in Washington.

Over the past few months, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with many of you about the problems you are facing in your businesses, in your households, and in your communities. You have encouraged me to carry your voice forward in 2014.

With deep reflection, and strong support from you, Danielle and our kids, my family and friends, I wanted to share with you first that I’ve made the decision to step forward and run in 2014 to represent the 10th District of Illinois.

I want to personally thank you for your continued encouragement. Running for office is never an easy decision for any candidate or their families, but this decision is much larger than my family and I; it is about serving our community and country.

I hope you will join me as we lay out our vision, together, for a more prosperous 10th District.

Sincerely,