EMILY's List

Debbie Halvorson

U.S. House, Illinois - District 11

An effective legislator with experience
An open seat triumph
A proven advocate for Illinois' working families

About Debbie Halvorson

Out with the old and in with the blue

In 2008, Democratic leaders were working to recruit state Senate Majority Leader Debbie Halvorson to challenge GOP Cong. Jerry Weller in Illinois’s 11th congressional district. When Weller announced his retirement, this seat shot to the top of the list of prime Democratic pick-up opportunities. Halvorson's decisive victory confirmed that this district was ready for change. But Republicans aren't ready -- or willing -- to see change any time soon, and they've made taking over this seat one of their top 2010 priorities.

An American success story

Halvorson was told growing up that college was “for the boys.” She married at 21 and became a stay-at-home mom and community volunteer. In 1996, she knocked off an 18-year Republican incumbent in her first run for the state Senate. At the state level, Halvorson moved from chair of the Democratic caucus to Senate majority leader -- the first woman in Illinois history! She also went back to college, earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. In Congress, Halvorson has used her own experience to become a powerful advocate for women and working families.

A savvy legislator

Halvorson commands respect as a legislator who gets things done. In Congress, she's been at the forefront of environmental policy, voting for funding for green jobs and sustainable energy solutions. A member of the Veteran's Affairs committee -- and step-mother of a U.S. soldier -- Halvorson has also led the way for better veterans' benefits, helping pass legislation to aid families and caretakers of injured veterans. Her leadership couldn't be more crucial in Washington right now -- and Democrats will have to rally behind her to prevent Republican attacks from distracting voters next November.

November 18, 2009

Rep. Halvorson introduces legislation to grow jobs, stimulate economy

eNews Park Forest

Working to bring quality, sustainable jobs to Illinois and help our economy grow and prosper, Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson (IL-11), joined Congressmen Walt Minnick (ID-1), Bobby Bright (AL-2), and Frank Kratovil (MD-1), in introducing the AMERICA Works Act, H.R. 4072, a bill to help Americans acquire the necessary skills to succeed in the 21st Century global economy.

"In tough economic times we must do everything we can to provide our citizens with the tools they need to secure good paying jobs that won't be outsourced overseas," said Halvorson. "This bill will jumpstart our economy by promoting American innovation and revitalizing our manufacturing sector. Investing in American workers will sustain our future prosperity."

Businesses hear benefits of health care reform

Morris Daily Herald

About four years ago, Bailey's Carpet One Floor & Home of Joliet, Morris and Naperville had to start having its employees contribute to their health care plan.

At the time, the company had been in the business for almost two decades and had always paid for its employees health care, said Randal Bailey, general manager and vice president of the family-owned business. It was a tough decision, but a must.

Bailey discussed his company's struggles after Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson's meeting Friday with small business owners on the benefits the health care reform bill will give them.

Halvorson: Why we need health care reform

Read My Lipstick: The EMILY's List Blog

Cong. Debbie Halvorson (IL-11), elected with EMILY's List members' support in 2008, released a powerful video today, highlighting stories behind health care reform. The people in the video, all Debbie's constituents, have dealt with incredible obstacles.

"These stories are the reasons why I voted for the Affordable Health Care for America Act, and these are the reasons why I have fought, and will continue to fight to deliver affordable, quality, stable care that works for you," Debbie said in an email to supporters.

Watch the video

Debbie Halvorson's Video

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Rep. Halvorson speaks in support of Job Creation through Entrepreneurship
Congresswoman Halvorson speaks in support of her amendment to H.R. 2352, the Job Creation through Entrepreneurship Act that ensures surviving spouses of armed forces members, national guardsmen, and veterans are eligible for training and counseling from the newly created Small Business Administration Veterans Business Center.