‘Every constituent will be my priority’

Across Illinois, families like mine and yours face the same struggles and fears – putting food on the table, paying the rent or mortgage, and trying to save for our kids’ college and our retirement. Each and every constituent – Democrat, Republican, independent, voter and non-voter – will be my priority.

I want to thank all of our volunteers throughout the district for all the countless hours knocking on doors, making phone calls, and doing all the work that helped us achieve victory. Your dedication, professionalism, genuine concern for community, and the time spent away from family was greatly appreciated.

To all of the Democratic organizations in Carroll, Henry, Rock Island and Whiteside counties, thank you for all your hard work and dedication. You helped to get Democrats elected from the White House to the courthouse. We could not have succeeded without you.

To my friends in organized labor, your support throughout this campaign was more than I could have ever asked for. I appreciate everything that you did for me, and I will never forget your generosity.

Finally, I want to thank all of my family for their support of my campaign. To my wife and children, during the past several months I realized that whether I was to win or to lose, the most important job I have is being a father to my two sons and a husband to my wife.

In August of this year, my wife was diagnosed with cancer. The strength and courage she showed after her diagnosis was remarkable. She never allowed me to quit or make excuses, and she insisted that I stay in the race to fight for working families like ours.

Her courage in the past few months has been an incredible motivation to me and my campaign. To everyone who has shared thoughts, prayers and kind words, thank you.