Women and Politics

This post was submitted by Jean Qiao, WCF Communications Fellow

WCF applauds Rep. Julie Hamos and Cheryle Jackson for two well-run campaigns. Thank you for taking the brave step of running for federal office and setting an example to women all around the country.

In a hard-fought race for the slot as the Democratic candidate for Congress in Illinois’ 10th congressional district, Julie Hamos was defeated by a mere 500 votes, with 99% of all precincts reporting. We hope that Hamos will continue to run for public office, as we desperately need experienced women who are dedicated to protecting women’s reproductive freedoms.

In spite of extreme media scrutiny, Cheryle Jackson ran a strong campaign for U.S. Senate. As a personal victim of the current lackluster health care system, Jackson serves as a fresh voice to U.S. politics. In her concession speech last night, Jackson said:

“Tonight we are here for a different kind of victory. Maybe not the victory we wanted but I view tonight as still a victory. I jumped into this race to give a voice to everyday people. People who are often overlooked by government”.

Women win and lose elections at the same rate of men. However, 50% less women even consider running, with only a fraction making the decision to become a candidate or run for higher office.

Research shows that women must be asked to run at least six times before they seriously consider running for public office. With only 17% of Congress being women, we must ensure that more women all across the country are running for office.

We only lose when women don’t run. Ask a woman you know today to run for office!

We are very proud of our endorsed candidates for their desire to bring about change, and strongly encourage them to run again, and for higher office, in the future.

This post was submitted by Jean Qiao, WCF Communications Fellow

Last night Robin Kelly took her first step to becoming the next Illinois State Treasurer.

Her proven record of success and integrity earned her the Democratic nomination in yesterday’s primary. Robin served as the representative for the Illinois 38th legislative district in the State Assembly before being appointed to Chief of Staff of the current State Treasurer.

Throughout her time serving in public office, Robin has continuously proven herself as a strong advocate for the Illinois citizens. Congratulations, Robin, on a well-deserved victory.

She will face Republican Senator Dan Rutherford in November’s general election.

Click here to learn more about Kelly or get involved in her campaign.

This post was submitted by Jean Qiao, WCF Communications Fellow

President Obama and many other candidates have been motivated by the desire for change. And candidate for Illinois State Treasurer Robin Kelly is no different.

Kelly has made helping people her number one priority throughout her career. She is a trusted leader in her community and will bring true change—especially when it comes to government transparency and safeguarding citizens’ tax dollars.

Kelly’s desire to bring about change led her to run for the Illinois general assembly in 2002, when she challenged and defeated a 10-year incumbent candidate in the race. During her tenure as representative of the 38th district of Illinois, Kelly continuously proved herself a strong advocate for the citizens of her district—she was a proud sponsor of landmark legislation to protect victims of domestic violence.

Currently, Kelly holds the top non-elected position in the state Treasurer’s office, Chief of Staff. In her role, Kelly directly supervises all departments in the Treasurer’s office as well as manages and administers the state budget to state and local funds.

As State Treasurer, Kelly has a record of providing transparency and responsibility. In a recent interview with the Windy City Times, she stated that she hopes to continue serving with integrity:

“I have a proven track record of putting people first. This office requires continued transparency because, as treasurer, we invest $14 billion each day of taxpayers’ money. As chief of staff to our current Treasurer I have helped contribute to the success of this office. We have responsibly managed and invested taxpayer’s money with more transparency than ever before”

Kelly’s hands-on experience in managing finances as well as her desire to help families across the state makes her the best candidate for the position. In one of the worst economies since 1939, it is obvious that Robin has both the experience and dedication needed to serve as Illinois State Treasurer.

Click here to learn more about Kelly or get involved with her campaign.