Like the rest of the nation and throughout Illinois, Lake and Cook counties have been hit hard by three plus years of recession, economic turmoil, and of late, Republican indifference and/or unwillingness to compromise in Congress.

Since announcing my candidacy last May, I have met too many people who are looking for work, worrying about their mortgage, uncertain about their health insurance, and doubting that things will get any better anytime soon. Not just concerned about the present, many of us are doubting the future. Doubting that our children will have the opportunities we had.  Doubting that our country’s best days still are ahead of us.

I, however, am an optimist. I believe that the American spirit that created the first 235 years of the American Dream remains strong. It is that spirit of “can-do” and perseverance that will be the engine to sustain the promise of America for the next generation, and the next after that.

I also believe that good government, including strong leadership and bold action from our Congress, can make a positive difference in our everyday lives. That, as much as anything, is why I am dedicating myself to working with our community to improve the lives of those struggling, to create opportunities for those with dreams, to restore confidence for all of us.

It is in that vein that I am pleased to share with you the following brief summaries of my positions on many of the important issues facing our country.  I welcome your perspectives, comments and ideas on these and any other issues that are of concern to you and your families.

Sincerely,

Brad